The changing face of bronchopulmonary dysplasia: Part 2. Discharging an infant home on oxygen.

Transitioning an infant with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) home on oxygen is a complex process. It requires an interdisciplinary team, with clear but flexible discharge criteria, and a coordinated process to manage the complexity. In "The Changing Face of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: Part I" (Advances in Neonatal Care, December 2002, pp 327-338), the evolving nature of BPD was presented, along with new diagnostic criteria, a description of the risk factors and clinical profile of this condition, and a discussion of preventative strategies as well as the medical and neurodevelopmental outcomes. "The Changing Face of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: Part 2. Discharging an Infant Home on Oxygen" provides strategies to support families during the pivotal transition home on oxygen and other related technologies. The use of a systematic interdisciplinary discharge planning process, guided by clear criteria for discharge, is presented. An outline of the comprehensive discharge teaching, home care, and multispecialty follow-up that are necessary to ensure a safe and smooth transition into the community to avoid repeat or unnecessary rehospitalizations and to enhance outcomes is provided. Medical fragility persists in infants with BPD, placing additional stress on families. Pragmatic strategies to provide intensive parent support throughout the process are offered.