Going Home After A Baby

Dr. Parang Mehta, MD.

You've endured 280 days of pregnancy, been through the birthing process, and now it's time to go home with your new baby!

But before you leave the hospital, make sure you're ready. Make sure you're well, your baby's well, and you have all the information and support information that will be needed.

Hospital Discharge Policy

It's best to find out about your hospital's discharge policy well in advance. Not knowing about a rule or procedure can create a roadblock on this happy occasion. For example, depending on local laws, the hospital will not discharge a baby unless an infant car seat is in place in your car. Arranging such things at the last moment can be difficult -- asking in advance for all the requirements is a good policy.

Find out also, about the hospital's check-out time. Your family should be there a little before that time. Else, many hospitals move mother and baby to a waiting room (often labelled hospitality suite or other nice sounding names).

Medication

Most normal babies require no medication when they go home. However, if your baby has had to start some medication while in hospital, you should have clear information on what is to be continued at home. Ask about the dose, timing, and method of administration of any medicines, and also how long they have to be continued.

If baby is not fully well at discharge (and this does happen -- babies are being discharged earlier and earlier) then you should have information not only about medication, but about special needs also. You may need to learn about the use of an apnea monitor or oxygen device, if your baby has a breathing problem. Infant cardiopulmonary respiration is one of the skills you may be taught before going home, under some circumstances.

Things to Collect

Printed instructions about routine care of baby.
A prescription for any medications.
A discharge summary. Especially necessary if the birth and hospital stay have been out of the ordinary.
Documents needed to apply for a birth certificate, social security number, and others, as required by local laws.
Contact information for emergencies, a pediatrician, a visiting nurse practitioner, breastfeeding support, etc.
An immunisation card that gives the dates of the shots your baby needs to get.
Appointments for follow up of baby and mother.

Last revision: September 16, 2011

Baby Checklist Before Going Home

Been examined by a pediatrician at least once, and found healthy and free of any birth defects.
Passed urine and motions, at least once each.
Accepts feeds well.
Is maintaining a normal body temperature without help -- in an open cot.
Does not have fever, jaundice, or any other signs of illness.
Has received the recommended vaccination shots, vitamin K injection, and any screening tests recommended.
Has regular breathing, without any significant pauses.

Contact Information

Dr. Parang Mehta,
Mehta Childcare,
Opposite Putli, Sagrampura,
Surat. Tel: +91 98241 53923.
Email:

Caring for Childhood