Discharge from the hospital

Learning objectives

• Describe the elements of the discharge of a NYI from hospital
• List discharge planning advice for family

Planning of discharge from the hospital is as important as diagnosis and treatment.

Correct timing of discharge from the hospital – this is when the diagnosis is clear and treatment has been started and the NYI is clinically improved. The NYI has to remain in hospital while receiving oxygen, IV treatment, if feeding has not been established or body temperature cannot be maintained.

Counsel the mother on

• Correct treatment if the NYI is still on treatment.
• Exclusive breast feeding of the infant at home for six months.
• Keeping the NYI warm including KMC if < 2000g (3)
• Remind her about the danger signs

Providing follow-up care

• Infants who are discharged from the hospital should return for follow-up in relation to the present problem as needed, but not routinely.
• Plan the routine follow-up with their local provider depending on the weight, age and exposure status of the NYI – write clearly the purpose of the follow up e.g. to do DNA PCR
• Discuss where and when the NYI will receive their next scheduled immunization
• Discuss where she will access care if the NYI has a danger sign

Record keeping

• Ensure the infant’s immunization status and record is up-to-date
• Ensure the HIV exposure status is recorded
• Communication with the health personnel who referred the infant or who will be responsible for follow-up care (Write in health passport and ask mother to show this note to them)