Evolution of care indicators after an early discharge intervention in preterm infants

Isabel Toral-López1, María Pilar González-Carrión1, Antonio Rivas-Campos1

  • 1Servicio Andaluz de Salud, Granada, España.

Enfermeria Clinica
|June 20, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Early discharge for preterm infants with home nursing support improved parental preparedness and infant care. This safe intervention benefits both families and children, enhancing adaptation to new life and breastfeeding.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal care
  • Pediatric nursing
  • Public health initiatives

Background:

  • Preterm infants require specialized care post-discharge.
  • Early discharge programs aim to reduce hospital stays while ensuring infant well-being.
  • Parental adaptation and education are crucial for successful home care of preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the health outcome evolution in preterm infants participating in an early discharge program.
  • To compare outcomes between infants receiving early discharge with home monitoring and those receiving standard care.

Main Methods:

  • A controlled, non-randomized trial was conducted.
  • The intervention group included stable preterm infants discharged two weeks early with home nursing care.
  • The control group received standard care, with exclusion based on distance or consent.

Main Results:

  • Significant differences were observed in Nursing Outcomes Classification scores between the intervention and control groups.
  • The intervention group demonstrated positive outcomes in parental preparedness and infant care.

Conclusions:

  • Early discharge with expert home nursing care is a safe and effective intervention for preterm infants.
  • This program enhances parental confidence, knowledge of health services, and adaptation to infant care.
  • The intervention supports successful breastfeeding establishment and overall family well-being.
Abstract

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