Below is a release on a policy statement appearing in the November issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

For Release: November 3, 2008, 12:01 am (ET)

A revised AAP policy statement provides new and additional information on issues related to when hospital discharge is appropriate for high-risk infants, specific needs for follow-up care, and the process of detailed discharge planning. The statement addresses four high-risk neonate categories: the preterm infant, the infant with special health care needs or dependence on technology, the infant at risk because of family issues, and the infant with anticipated early death. The revised recommendations will aid physicians and health care staff in deciding when discharge is appropriate while ensuring that all necessary care will be available and well coordinated after the child leaves the hospital.  

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.