French neonatal society position paper stresses the importance of an early family-centred approach to discharging preterm infants from hospital

Aim: The families of hospitalised preterm infants risk depression and post-traumatic stress and the preterm infants risk re-hospitalisation. The French neonatal society's aim was to review the literature on how the transition from hospital to home could limit these risks and to produce a position paper.

Methods: A systematic literature review was performed covering 1 January 2000 to 1 January 2018, and multidisciplinary experts examined the scientific evidence.

Results: We identified 939 English and French papers and 169 are quoted in the position paper. Most studies stressed the importance of early, personalised and progressive involvement of the family. Healthcare staff and families should assess discharge preparations jointly. This evaluation should assess the capacities of the newborn infant, with regard to its physiological maturity. It should also assess the family's ability to supply the medical, psychological and social assistance required before and after discharge. There should be a structured follow-up process that includes effective communication, various tools, interventions, networks, health and social professionals.

Conclusion: Discharge preparations may improve the transition from hospital to home and the outcomes for the parents and newborn preterm infant. This early family-centred approach should be structured, coordinated and based on individual needs and circumstances.