Early Postnatal Discharge of Term Low Risk Neonates

A total of 1151 low risk mother infant dyads were studied to find out feasibility of an early postnatal discharge from the hospital. None of the mothers had any obstetric or medical complications as to require any specific intervention in hospital. Although 27.2% of babies had minor problems, only one baby had symptomatic hypoglycemia requiring transfer to neonatal nursery. This was attributed to intentional delay of feeding due to some superstitious belief in the family. The incidence of infection (1.4%) and jaundice (5.6%) were low, thus demonstrating the safety of early discharge of low risk mother and neonate. 50% mothers when interviewed welcomed and preferred the idea of early discharge event without prior health education. However, it is suggested that along with early postnatal discharge, “domiciliary postnatal services” through trained dais and ANMS should be strengthened as provided in basic model of Primary health Care of India.