BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined earlier discharge in relation to Canadian guidelines for earlier discharge and infant feeding. We addressed differences in readmission (1 year post-discharge) and exclusive breastfeeding (4 months) for newborns and mothers discharged within 48 hours compared to those with a longer hospital stay. METHOD: A cohort of 1,357 vaginally delivered singleton normal newborns and their mothers (births between January 1, 1996 and March 31, 1997) were studied by linking five databases and a chart audit. RESULTS: Overall there were no differences in infant and maternal readmission or rates of exclusive breastfeeding. CONCLUSION: Canadian guidelines for earlier discharge appear appropriate for vaginally delivered singleton normal newborns and their mothers with timely home visitation.
BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined earlier discharge in relation to Canadian guidelines for earlier discharge and infant feeding. We addressed differences in readmission (1 year post-discharge) and exclusive breastfeeding (4 months) for newborns and mothers discharged within 48 hours compared to those with a longer hospital stay. METHOD: A cohort of 1,357 vaginally delivered singleton normal newborns and their mothers (births between January 1, 1996 and March 31, 1997) were studied by linking five databases and a chart audit. RESULTS: Overall there were no differences in infant and maternal readmission or rates of exclusive breastfeeding. CONCLUSION: Canadian guidelines for earlier discharge appear appropriate for vaginally delivered singleton normal newborns and their mothers with timely home visitation.
Authors: Kathleen O Steel O'Connor; David L Mowat; Helen M Scott; Pamela A Carr; John L Dorland; Kin Fan W Young Tai Journal: Can J Public Health Date: 2003 Mar-Apr