Study note

Newborn discharge readiness, maternal advice, and follow-up

THE CONTEXT

Assessment before discharge includes feeding adequacy, the infant's health, maternal confidence, counseling, and a planned follow-up visit.

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There should be no breastfeeding problems, and the mother should be able to breastfeed the neonate well.

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Indicators of adequate feeding include urine passage 6–8 times every 24 hours and sleeping well for 2–3 hours after feeds.

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The newborn should have received immunization according to schedule and have no significant jaundice or other illness requiring closer observation.

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The mother should be confident in newborn care, have received routine care counseling, and have had danger signs explained.

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The nursing mother should eat adequate healthy food above the recommended dietary allowance to meet the energy and protein needs of breastfeeding.

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She should drink enough water and other liquids to remain hydrated.

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Continue iron and folic acid supplementation until three months of postnatal age.

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The family should recognize signs and symptoms of postpartum hemorrhage, infection, thromboembolism, and hypertension.

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Mental health issues are common in the postpartum period and require adequate care.

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Assign a follow-up date before discharge.

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Neonates with low birth weight, prematurity, significant jaundice, or feeding that is not established should be seen within 2–3 days of discharge.

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A normal newborn with adequate breastfeeding and no significant jaundice by 72 hours can be seen at six weeks of age.

NEETx

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