Introduction

Neonatal Sepsis Prevention focuses on reducing the risk of life-threatening infections in newborns, particularly in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and special newborn care units (SNCUs). Newborns—especially preterm and low-birth-weight infants—are highly vulnerable to infections due to immature immune systems, invasive procedures, and prolonged hospital stays.

This course emphasizes evidence-based infection prevention and control (IPC) practices across the continuum of neonatal care, from delivery rooms to intensive care settings. It equips healthcare teams with practical strategies to prevent early- and late-onset neonatal sepsis while supporting safe, compassionate, and family-centered newborn care.

Scope

This program covers infection prevention practices specific to neonatal care, including:

• Epidemiology and risk factors for neonatal sepsis
• Standard and transmission-based precautions in NICUs and newborn units
• Hand hygiene and aseptic technique in neonatal care
• Safe delivery room practices and early newborn care
• Prevention of device-associated infections (central lines, IV cannulas, ventilators)
• Safe handling of breast milk, feeding equipment, and medications
• Environmental cleaning and equipment disinfection in neonatal units
• Surveillance, early recognition, and escalation of sepsis signs
• Antimicrobial stewardship considerations in neonatal care
• Documentation, audits, and quality improvement in sepsis prevention

Objectives

By the end of the program, learners will be able to:

• Understand the causes and risk factors for neonatal sepsis.
• Apply stringent IPC practices to protect vulnerable newborns.
• Prevent cross-infection in neonatal and newborn care settings.
• Reduce device-related infection risks in neonates.
• Identify early signs of sepsis and support timely escalation of care.
• Participate in surveillance and monitoring of neonatal infections.
• Support family-centered care while maintaining infection safety.
• Contribute to improved neonatal outcomes through consistent IPC practices.

Who Can Enroll

This program is suitable for:

• NICU and SNCU nurses
• Neonatologists and pediatricians
• Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) nurses and officers
• Staff nurses working in labor rooms and postnatal wards
• Pediatric residents and junior doctors
• Quality and patient safety teams
• Healthcare professionals involved in newborn care

Study Content from TERRALEAP.COM

Learners receive structured study support through TERRALEAP.COM, including:

• Expert-led videos on neonatal infection prevention and sepsis risk reduction
• Scenario-based learning focused on delivery room and NICU practices
• Guided explanations of surveillance, bundles, and early warning signs
• Learning resources designed to reinforce safe, consistent neonatal care