[Study of the quality of interhospital transport of sick neonates by selected ambulances in the Witwatersrand area].

The quality of the inter hospital transport of ill neonates, by selected ambulances in the Witwatersrand area, was investigated by means of the case study method. Of the fifteen case studies investigated, eleven neonates were transported by a private ambulance and four by provincial ambulances. Data regarding the maternal- and neonatal history, the optimal maintenance of the neonate's condition, the communication system, as well as aspects relating to the transport personnel, were collected by means of a structured instrument. Retrospective auditing of records, structured interviewing and direct observation/inspection were utilised as the research techniques. The quality of the inter hospital transport of ill neonates, especially by the private ambulance, is not up to standard. Deterioration of the neonate's body temperature, heart and respiration rates, as well as the serum glucose values after transport, were of the more important findings. The lack of equipment, especially in the private ambulance, increases the risk of transport. Staff development and formal control by a local committee, as well as a national control body, are recommended.