The Waikato District Health Board claims it's unclear whether earlier detection would have saved a baby who died of a brain infection

The baby girl was being treated for a brain dysfunction in Waikato Hospital's neonatal intensive care unit, but developed sepsis.

The Health and Disability Commissioner found she was given antibiotics too late, after staff failed to adequately monitor and assess her - or take proper medical records.

Clinical Unit Leader Dr Dave Graham says it was a rare and challenging case.

But he says they've increased NICU staffing levels and sepsis management training, and have a more robust handover process.