Knowledge and Practices of Healthcare Providers Regarding Neonatal Transport in Eastern Morocco: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Neonatal transport is a critical component of neonatal care, particularly in low-resource settings where inadequate transport conditions may contribute to increased neonatal morbidity and mortality. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess knowledge and practices related to neonatal transport among healthcare providers in Eastern Morocco.

METHODS

This study included healthcare facilities providing care at different levels. A structured anonymous questionnaire created using Google Forms was distributed online. Data was collected between April 1 and April 9, 2026. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 77 healthcare providers participated in this study. Most participants correctly identified key aspects of neonatal transport, including neonatal stabilization (70/77, 90.9%), thermoregulation (75/77, 97.4%), and recognition of hypothermia (57/77, 74.0%). However, reported practices were less consistent. Only 40 (51.9%) participants consistently performed stabilization before transport, 35 (45.5%) ensured continuous monitoring, and 38 (49.4%) of the 77 participants systematically applied preventive measures against hypothermia. In addition, standard ambulances were the most commonly used means of transport (52/77, 67.5%), while only 20 (26.0%) reported using equipped ambulances.

CONCLUSION

Neonatal transport practices in Eastern Morocco remain inconsistent despite relatively high levels of knowledge among healthcare providers. This gap between knowledge and practice highlights the need for structured training programs and improved transport infrastructure to enhance neonatal outcomes in resource-limited settings.