1. What is the Neonatal Sepsis Risk Calculator?

The Neonatal Sepsis Risk Calculator estimates the probability of early-onset sepsis in newborns using a multivariate model that incorporates base incidence rates and likelihood ratios for various risk factors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( Base\_incidence \) — Baseline incidence of neonatal sepsis (per 1000 births)
• \( Likelihood\_ratios \) — Multiplicative factors for each risk factor (unitless)

Explanation: The equation calculates risk by multiplying the base incidence rate by the product of all relevant likelihood ratios for the infant's risk factors.

3. Importance of Risk Calculation

Details: Accurate risk assessment helps guide clinical decisions about antibiotic use and monitoring for newborns, potentially reducing unnecessary antibiotic exposure while ensuring high-risk infants receive appropriate care.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the base incidence rate (typically 0.5 per 1000 for term infants) and likelihood ratios for each relevant risk factor. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a high risk score?
A: Typically, risk >1 per 1000 may warrant consideration for antibiotics, though clinical judgment should always be used.

Q2: What are common risk factors included?
A: Common factors include maternal GBS status, duration of rupture of membranes, maternal fever, and gestational age.

Q3: How accurate is this calculator?
A: The multivariate model has been validated in large populations and performs better than single-factor assessments.

Q4: Can this be used for preterm infants?
A: The model works best for late preterm and term infants. Specialized calculators exist for extremely preterm infants.

Q5: Should this replace clinical judgment?
A: No, this is a decision-support tool that should be used in conjunction with full clinical assessment.