A recent study has focused on various types of neonatal care practices, that might be considered as mistreatment, across the world. It also provides empirical evidence on practices related to the experience of care for neonates in health facilities in the immediate postnatal period using a standardised tool across countries (Ghana, Guinea, and Nigeria). 

The researches revealed that many neonates are not receiving recommended, high-quality, equitable care, which may have significant associations between lack of maternal education, neonatal characteristics, and recommended neonatal care practices, like breastfeeding, skin-to-skin care, and closeness the mother. Additionally, maternal mistreatment (physical abuse in the hour before childbirth) contributes to neonate experiencing mistreatment, like being slapped. 

Thus they emphasized the fact that every neonate is entitled to high-quality, respectful care after birth, yet many are not receiving the full complement of recommended practices, including some with mistreatment. They underlined the importance of relatively low cost, high impact interventions (such as skin-to-skin care and breastfeeding support) for all neonates after birth.

The researchers also highlighted the key role of environments, with proper staffing and equipment, for healthcare workers to provide the highest possible quality care. Lastly, No patient should be denied medical care due to non-payment.

Source: Emma Sacks E, Mehrtash H, Bohren M, Balde MD, Vogel JP, Adu-Bonsaffoh K. et al. The first 2 h after birth: prevalence and factors associated with neonatal care practices from a multicountry, facility-based, observational study, Lancet Glob Health, 2021;9(1):E72-E80.