Critical elements of transition from NICU to home and follow-up

The continued expansion of NICU's and the subsequent increase in the survival rate of infants and children with special health care needs warrants an examination of the variables that contribute to a successful transition from hospital to home. While best practices have been identified for both families and professionals, many of the 1150 NICU's across the country are not in a position to implement such practices, primarily because of fiscal and time constraints. This article presents an overview of a project designed to identify and facilitate critical elements of transition that can be implemented at minimum cost for all families transitioning from hospital to home care in Connecticut. The identified elements include: (a) the use of a parent to parent support network, (b) the use of a standard discharge summary form to enhance communication among family and care providers, (c) the use of a continuing care plan to facilitate the accessibility of community services, and (d), the identification of on-going training activities for both families and providers.