Topical applications of chlorhexidine to the umbilical cord for prevention of omphalitis and neonatal mortality in southern Nepal: a community-based, cluster-randomised trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Omphalitis contributes to neonatal morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Umbilical cord cleansing with antiseptics might reduce infection and mortality risk, but has not been rigorously investigated.

Methods

In our community-based, cluster-randomised trial, 413 communities in Sarlahi, Nepal, were randomly assigned to one of three cord-care regimens. 4934 infants were assigned to 4.0% chlorhexidine, 5107 to cleansing with soap and water, and 5082 to dry cord care. In intervention clusters, the newborn cord was cleansed in the home on days 1-4, 6, 8, and 10. In all clusters, the cord was examined for signs of infection (pus, redness, or swelling) on these visits and in follow-up visits on days 12, 14, 21, and 28. Incidence of omphalitis was defined under

SUBMITTER: Mullany LC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2367116 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature