Premature infant care protocol in Qatif: Survival stories of critically underweight babies
With the rapid medical advancements in Saudi Arabia, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have become the first line of defense in saving the lives of critically low-birth-weight infants. In this context, a medical consultant at Qatif Central Hospital revealed details of the precise treatment protocol followed to save premature babies, showcasing inspiring success stories of infants born weighing as little as 900 grams.
An integrated system for intensive care
Dr. Ola Al-Khalifa, a consultant in neonatal care, explained that therapeutic nutrition is no less important than pharmacological and surgical interventions; in fact, it forms the cornerstone of intensive care programs. She pointed out that the approved medical protocol relies on a medical system that begins from the first moments after birth, medically known as the "golden hour," during which a safe environment is provided that mimics the mother's womb in terms of warmth and humidity within advanced incubators.
Al-Khalifa explained that real-time monitoring of vital signs is the crucial first step, followed by supporting the underdeveloped respiratory system through advanced ventilators to ensure blood oxygenation and stability of the child's physiological condition.
Nutritional pathways and infection prevention
Regarding nutrition, the consultant emphasized that food is administered through precise and calculated pathways, including central catheterization, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), or tube feeding, depending on the maturity of the child's digestive system and its absorption capacity. Dr. Ola stressed the importance of strict preventative measures, noting that the medical and nursing team applies high-level sterilization procedures to prevent bacterial and viral infections that could threaten the lives of these immunocompromised children, while providing immediate treatment when necessary.
The medical context and the importance of premature baby care
These efforts are of paramount importance in the local and global health context, as medical statistics indicate that premature birth (before 37 weeks of gestation) is the leading cause of death among children under five years of age worldwide. As part of its Vision 2030 health sector objectives, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is giving significant attention to reducing neonatal mortality rates by equipping hospitals with the latest technologies and qualified medical personnel to handle cases of extremely premature infants, thereby increasing survival rates and reducing the likelihood of permanent disability.
Survival stories: Hussein and Batoul
Dr. Ola Al-Khalifa presented inspiring real-life stories that instill hope in families, most notably the story of baby Hussein, who was born at 29 weeks gestation with a critically low weight of just 900 grams. Hussein faced complex health challenges, including breathing and feeding difficulties. He underwent an intensive treatment program that included mechanical ventilation and umbilical feeding, and thanks to God and the medical care he received, he was able to overcome the critical stage and recover fully.
She also recounted another inspiring story of Batoul, who was born 14 years ago under exceptional circumstances at a gestational age of only 24 weeks (six months), a medically considered threshold for viability. Despite the immense challenges, Batoul is now 14 years old and in good health, having overcome all the obstacles of prematurity.
Al-Khalifa concluded her speech with a message of reassurance to every father and mother going through this experience, stressing that trust in God, then commitment to modern medical protocols and attention to minute details makes a fundamental difference in the lives of these children, and gives them a real opportunity for growth and a normal life.
