Shensea S., 1

The baby has been admitted at the hospital since March 3rd. She was born prematurely at 28 weeks of gestation, weighing only 1,200 grams. The delivery took place at a local clinic when the pregnancy was just at 27 weeks, far earlier than the full-term mark of around 37 weeks. Due to her low birth weight and prematurity, the newborn was referred to Siaya County Referral Hospital for specialized care. Initially, the mother was hesitant to admit her baby to the newborn unit, fearing she wouldn't be able to afford the medical expenses. However, she was reassured that, as a public hospital, no payment was required upfront. She has since been relying on support from friends and relatives to help cover the costs while the baby continues receiving treatment. The family lives in extremely difficult conditions, residing in a grass-thatched house and often going without food. The mother earns a small income by doing laundry for people in nearby neighborhoods to sustain herself and her children.

Shensea was born prematurely and was of low birth weight. This prompted admission to the New born unit where she was fed and monitored for over four weeks. Shensea eventually added weight as requred and was duly discharged. Mother was booked for review in the post natal clinic. A call to the mother revealed that Sjensea was growing well, her feeding was much better and was equally feeding. well.

A baby born at 28 weeks and 1200g has a good chance of survival (85–90%) with modern care and a moderate risk of long-term complications—many of which can be mitigated with early and consistent intervention. If the baby is not urgently addressed they risk suffering ; Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS): Very common; typically managed with surfactant and ventilatory support. Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH): Risk of bleeding in the brain, especially before 28 weeks. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC): A serious intestinal problem; monitored carefully. Infections (sepsis): Immature immune system increases susceptibility. Apnea and bradycardia: Pauses in breathing and slow heart rate, common in preterms.