Discharge planning

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Discharge planning

Criteria for safe discharge of infants with bronchiolitis from the emergency department and inpatient ward

SpO₂ Peripheral oxygen saturation.

For infants with bronchiolitis, safe discharge from the hospital (ED or ward) should take into account risk factors for severe illness (see pg 6), the distance of the family’s residence from the hospital, their ability to return, parental health literacy, and the timing of the hospital presentation relative to the natural history of bronchiolitis.

Infants should be considered as safe for discharge from hospital when the criteria above are met. These criteria incorporate clinical stability, oxygen saturation and support requirements, feeding difficulties, parent/caregiver ability to manage the illness from home and education on deterioration, the social situation of the family, and arrangement of local follow-up where appropriate. (Evidence quality: very low; recommendation strength: weak)

Education (parent/ caregiver)

A bronchiolitis information sheet (in writing or electronic) should be provided to parents and caregivers. Parents and caregivers should be educated about the illness, the expected progression, and when and where to seek further medical care if needed.