The Diagnostic Accuracy of C-Reactive Protein in Neonatal Sepsis in Association with Blood Culture in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, at EL-Sewedy Pediatric Charity Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan

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Introduction: Improving clinical outcomes in pediatric care requires the integration of age-appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. This study aims to introduce SBSReact, a specialized framework designed to address the unique physiological and developmental needs of infants and children. Methodology: This observational, hospital-based, retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of El-Sewedy Pediatric Charity Hospital in Khartoum, Sudan, from January 2022 to January 2023. A convenience sample of 182 neonates (age 28 days and less) with confirmed sepsis was selected, and data regarding demographics, clinical risk factors, and laboratory findings were extracted using a structured form. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 with descriptive statistics and bi-variable analysis (Chi-square and t-tests), with significance set at a p-value of 0.05 and less. The study secured ethical approval from the Sudan Medical Specialization Board, ensuring data anonymity and confidentiality. Results: The study cohort was predominantly male (57.7%) and preterm (58.2%). A significant majority exhibited low birth weights, with very low birth weight (VLBW) being the most common (36.3%). Maternal comorbidities were present in 44% of cases, with urinary tract infections (12.6%) and diabetes (7.6%) being the most frequent. The primary clinical presentations included respiratory distress (69.8%), dysthermia (62.6%), pyrexia (25.2%), and feeding intolerance (20.3%). Other significant findings included hyperbilirubinemia and glycemic instability (both 52.2%). Conclusion: In Khartoum, preterm and low-birth-weight infants face the highest risk of sepsis. Using C-Reactive Protein (CRP) within the SBSReact framework provides a fast, reliable diagnostic link to clinical symptoms. While blood cultures are the gold standard, CRP enables faster intervention and smarter antibiotic use in resource-limited clinics.