The newborn’s ability to survive and thrive in the neonatal period and through infancy is strongly influenced by the birth weight. Low birth weight (LBW) is the most important contributing factor to neonatal morbidity and mortality.Between 40 and 80 percent of all neonatal deaths occur among low birth weight babies. Compared to babies with normal birth weight, low birth weight babies have a much greater risk of dying.
In Malawi, 42 percent of all infant deaths occur during the neonatal period.Approximately, 14 percent of babies born are of low birth weight and these babies, being more vulnerable, contribute significantly to the high neonatal and infant mortality rates.
Care of LBW babies requires special attention, particularly with regard to warmth, feeding, hygiene practices, and prompt identification and treatment of infections.Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) has been found to be an effective method of care for stable low birth weight babies.
To facilitate the establishment and expansion of KMC as a method of care for stable low birthweight babies in Malawi, KMC guidelines have been developed for health workers.
Training in KMC shall be conducted by qualified trainers who will have undergone an appropriate training course at the KMC Learning Centre.
Aim
To facilitate the use of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) for stable low birth weight infants.
Objective
To provide a guide that will assist providers to establish Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) as a safe and effective method for low birth weight babies (LBW) at all levels of care including community level.
