Observational study showed that using video consultations was a viable way of delivering an early discharge programme for preterm infants

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate an early discharge programme with video consultations for preterm infants.

Methods: A homecare programme for preterm infants was developed. Prospective data on readmissions, length of stay, growth, breastfeeding rates, and parent self-reports about satisfaction were collected from April 2021 to August 2023. Additionally, retrospective data were collected from the Norwegian Neonatal Network Central Database from 2020.

Results: Preterm infants, 72 and parents, 128 were included. The infants were discharged from the hospital at a median of 35 + 6 (34 + 0-42 + 4) weeks postmenstrual age. The median length of stay in the program was 18 days (3-37). There were four readmissions. The Z-score of infant weight slightly increased during the follow up, with a mean of 0.16. By discharge, 75% of the infants were exclusively breastfed. Growth and breastfeeding rates were in line with retrospective data (85 infants). The response rate of the parents to the survey was 61 (52%). Overall, the parents (n = 54) were highly satisfied (96%). The video consultations contributed to ensuring parents to feel safe in caring for their infant at home.

Conclusion: Follow up by video consultations is a viable healthcare service for preterm infants, the infants' growth is sufficient, breastfeeding rates are maintained, and parents feel safe and satisfied.

Keywords: breastfeeding; early discharge programme; follow up; neonatal telehomecare; preterm infant.