Validity and Reliability of the Neonatal Skin Condition Score to Predict Sepsis Related Morbidity, Mortality and Duration of Hospitalisation of Newborns: A Prospective Observational Study

Dr. Arnab Bandyopadhyay, Dr. Bhadresh Vyas, Dr. Maulik Shah, Dr. Manisha Swain

Abstract: Background: The Neonatal Skin Condition Score (NSCS) is a standardized tool for assessing newborn skin integrity, yet its clinical utility in predicting sepsis-related morbidity and mortality remains underexplored. Objectives: To assess the reliability and validity of NSCS in predicting sepsis-related outcomes and hospitalization duration among neonates. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care NICU. Neonates were assessed using NSCS for dryness, erythema, and skin breakdown. Reliability was tested using intra- and inter-observer agreement. Associations between NSCS and laboratory markers (CRP, ANC, TLC, blood culture), gestational age, birth weight, hospital stay, and outcomes were analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression. Results: Among 1000 neonates, 81.8% were term and 68.6% had low birth weight. Majority (69.9%) scored 3 (normal skin condition). Higher NSCS correlated strongly with CRP positivity (p < 0.001) and blood culture positivity (p < 0.001). Significant associations were also noted with birth weight, gestational age, and length of hospital stay. Inter- and intra-observer reliability showed substantial agreement (? = 0.70?0.89). No mortality was observed, though higher NSCS was associated with increased antibiotic use and prolonged hospitalization. Conclusion: The NSCS is a valid and reliable tool for routine neonatal skin assessment and can serve as an early predictor of sepsis-related morbidity and hospitalization risk. Its adoption in NICUs may improve surveillance and early intervention strategies.

Keywords: Neonatal Skin Condition Score, reliability, validity, sepsis, NICU, newborn morbidity

How to Cite?: Dr. Arnab Bandyopadhyay, Dr. Bhadresh Vyas, Dr. Maulik Shah, Dr. Manisha Swain, "Validity and Reliability of the Neonatal Skin Condition Score to Predict Sepsis Related Morbidity, Mortality and Duration of Hospitalisation of Newborns: A Prospective Observational Study", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1618-1620, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR25829105505, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR25829105505