Authors (including presenting author) :
Ho LP (1), Lee SY(1), Cheng SM(1), Wong MK (1), Ho PF (1), Cheung SY (1), Tang W Y(1), Chow YS (1), Chan DPS(1), Yam KKM(1), So AKW(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Paediatrics, Prince of Wales Hospital
Introduction :
In the past, low birth weight (LBW) infants were discharged from the hospital simply based on Body weight alone (for simple workflow decision) resulted in some unnecessary stay for physiologically ready babies and may discharge some unready babies/family too early. Peri-discharge programme has been implemented since February 2018 to promote and facilitate early and safe discharge of LBW infants.
Objectives :
(1) Promote stable ex-premies and LBW infants in home/community care; (2) To empower parents and enhance their competency in infant care with post-discharge support; (3) to shorten the length of stay for LBW infants and reduce inpatient workload
Methodology :
First, a standard practice protocol and a discharge checklist were prepared. The peri-discharge team was formed by a group of senior nurses who are experienced in infant care. The team would assess the physical wellness of the infant including maintenance of body temperature after nursing in open cot, establishment of full oral feeding and satisfactory oxygenation in various activities including feeding and sleeping. The team enhances parental competency in infant care by one on one coaching on parental skills in daily infant care, namely dressing, feeding and bathing.
Result & Outcome :
From Feb 2018 to Dec 2018, 200 LBW infants were recruited into the programme. The mean birth weight of the infants was 1.75kg with the mean gestational age of 33. 15 weeks. The average time used in infant assessment and parental coaching were 9.64 days. The overall length of hospital stay of the comparable group of infants was shortened for 7 days after implementation of the programme. Post programme questionnaire showed a significant improvement in parental competency score with p value of 0.00 (p<0.05). In conclusion, peri-discharge programme for LBW infants promotes earlier and better preparation of infants and parents and thus earlier discharge and shorter length of stay.
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