facilitating discharge from hospital of the healthy term infant

Question 1

What are two findings that are commonly missed on newborn physical exam?

Answer 1

cleft palate

imperforate anus

Question 2

What are the 12 criteria for a term infant to be ready for DC?

Answer 2

1. Physical exam complete & documented
2. Cardioresp adaptation
3. Temp stable
4. Urine & 1 stool
5. 2 feeds
6. Maternal serology reviewed
7. NBS done >= 24 hr or arrangement for within 7 days
8. Hearing screening done or scheduled
9. Bili at discharge or 72 hours of life, whichever first
10. Vit K and ophthalmia neonatorum proph
11. HBV and BCG
12. Approved car seat
13. POS at 24-36 hrs of life

Question 3

What parental education do you provide at the time of DC home for healthy term infant?

Answer 3

1. infant feeding (importance of BFing)
2. normal newborn behaviour and care
3. recognition of early signs of illness (jaundice, dehydration, sepsis)
4. infant safety (car seat use, safe sleep practices, other measures to decrease risk of SIDS)
5. Infection control measures
6. importance of smoke-free environment

Question 4

When does baby need to see HCP post DC home after birth?

Answer 4

FU visit 24-72 h postdischarge