Prevalence of Respiratory Tract Infection among Children’s Admitted in NICU and PICU of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Background: Respiratory disorders are diseases of lungs and human airways that affect human respiration. In 2017, according to the Global Burden of Disease Study, approximately 544.9 million people worldwide lived with chronic respiratory diseases a 39.8 % increase since 1990, representing about 7 % of all deaths and making CRDs the third leading cause of mortality globally. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of respiratory tract diseases and its associated factors. Material and Methods: A Quantitative Research approach with a descriptive research design to assess the prevalence of respiratory diseases among children admitted to the NICU and PICU of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, from December 1 to December 31, 2024. Using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique, the study included all paediatric patients admitted with respiratory conditions during the study period. Data were collected using a validated, expert-reviewed tool comprising three sections: demographic details, a structured questionnaire (covering medical history, environmental factors, admission details, clinical signs, diagnostics, and outcomes), and treatment data. Ethical clearance and institutional permissions were obtained, and informed consent and confidentiality were maintained throughout data collection. Result: The study reveals that among total patients admitted 38 % were due to the respiratory diseases The data also highlights that respiratory distress as the primary reason for admission in 83% of cases, emphasizing its critical role in paediatric morbidity. Prematurity was the most common underlying condition (30%), known to compromise lung development. A high rate of caesarean deliveries (86%) may contribute to delayed lung fluid clearance, increasing respiratory risks. Conclusion: Respiratory distress remains a major cause of PICU & NICU admissions, particularly among newborn males and preterm infants. Despite a high proportion of term births and normal birth weights, prematurity and caesarean delivery were common contributing factors. Vaccination gaps and respiratory symptoms requiring advanced ventilation support emphasize the need for better perinatal care, immunization coverage, and early screening for respiratory conditions.