Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What is the recommended discharge time for a late preterm infant by the American Academy of Pediatrics?

1. 24 hours

2. 48 hours

3. 72 hours

4. 96 hours

The correct answer is: 48 hours

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a discharge time of 48 hours for late preterm infants, who are typically born between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation. This timeframe is crucial as it allows healthcare providers to monitor the infant’s transition to extrauterine life thoroughly, ensuring they are feeding well, maintaining their temperature, and exhibiting stable vital signs. During the 48-hour observation period, medical professionals can identify any potential complications that might arise in the late preterm population, who often retain risks associated with prematurity even after crossing the threshold for what is considered term. This period is also where parents can receive crucial education on caring for their infant, recognizing signs of distress, and understanding feeding practices, which is essential for the baby’s health and safety. Other options, such as shorter or longer discharge times, do not allow for adequate assessment of the infant's readiness to go home and may risk overlooking critical early warning signs that could necessitate further intervention. By adhering to the 48-hour guideline, healthcare providers are aligning with best practices that aim to optimize outcomes for late preterm infants.