The 3rd week of November is observed as National Newborn Week throughout the world. The main aim is to sensitize all parents, doctors and nursing staff about the need for improvement in quality of neonatal care in order to bring down neonatal mortality to a single digit. Dept. of Pediatrics, KIMS observed the week (15 – 21 November 2021) and celebrated it in association with National Neonatology Forum (NNF) State Branch and UNICEF Odisha on 18th November.
The program included a competition amongst nursing staff on neonatal daily nursing activities and was conducted by Dr. Soumini Rath and Dr. Manas Nayak, Associate Professors. An exciting quiz competition amongst mothers relating to newborn care was hosted by Dr. Deepti Pradhan and Dr. Sushree, Asst. Professors, and also a colorful Rangoli competition among nurses, based on the theme of newborn week and judged by the faculties of NICU.
It was followed by an inaugural ceremony chaired by Principal KIMS, Brig Dr. Ambika Prasad Mohanty; addressed by HOD, Prof. Dr. Natabar Swain; Prof. Sebaranjan Biswal, IAP Secretary, State Branch; Dr Santosh Kumar Panda, Associate Professor in charge NICU and Nursing Superintendent, Col Susama Sahoo. The dignitaries discussed the theme “Safety, Quality and Nurturing Care: Birthright of Every Newborn” and its perspective on the future for the hospital. Prizes were distributed by the chief guest to the winners of various competitions organized on the occasion. The function was participated by faculty members, PG trainees, residents and nurses of the Pediatric Department and parents of babies in the ward and NICU.