Early Discharge of Preterm Infants-An Indian Perspective

• Main Authors: Ankit Soni, Sandeep Kadam, Anand Pandit, Sanjay Patole
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited 2016-12-01
• Series: Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research
• Subjects: home; premies; re-admission; safety
• Online Access: https://jcdr.net/articles/PDF/9110/21176_CE[Ra]_F(Sh)_PF1(PI_RK)_PFA(AK)_PF2(PAG).pdf

Introduction: Early home discharge of preterm infants is a priority in developing countries due to bed shortage and poor socio-economic status. There is wide variation in home discharge policies for preterm infants. Limited data exists on optimal timing for discharging such infants. In view of the socioeconomic and medico-legal importance of the issue, we aimed to study the outcomes of our ex-preterm infants discharged home ‘early’, to guide our clinical practice. Aim: To study the rates of re-admissions/mortality within 4 weeks after discharge in preterm (born <34 weeks) infants. Materials and Methods: This was an analysis of retrospectively collected data on all ex-preterm infants (gestation <34 weeks at birth) discharged home from our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) during the study period. Infants enrolled were stratified based on their gestation age: Group I (n=54): 26-29 weeks, Group II (n=181): 30-34 weeks. Data on demographic characteristics, hospital course and outcomes were analysed for infants meeting inclusion criteria. Re-admission and/or mortality within 4 weeks after discharge were studied. Results: The mean±(SD) duration of stay was 42±19 vs. 19±14 days in group I vs. II infants. Five (2.7%) infants were re-admitted within the first four weeks after discharge in group II; none in group I. Conclusion: Early home discharge for preterm infants born <34 weeks was feasible and safe in our set-up. Large prospective studies are required to confirm these benefits.