Early discharge was highest among Hispanic mothers and infants. A shorter stay reduces the opportunity to train the mother in infant care during her hospital stay. And, to the extent that there is more education that would be lost now than previously, because of the 'Back to Sleep' campaign, we actually think our results may be even stronger today than they were 10 years ago. Education is also a way to prevent two other important causes of readmission and death among newborn babies. Ipp says improper breastfeeding can lead to babies becoming dehydrated and jaundiced.
Jaundiced babies have a yellowish tinge to their skin and the whites of their eyes.
Mild jaundice may simply go away, but more serious cases can lead to death, Ipp says. Teaching new moms proper nursing technique can minimize the risk of jaundice and dehydration. Another way to avoid problems is to delay discharge of a baby who is having obvious trouble nursing . Suzanne Trupin, MD, agrees that maternal education is a major issue that has taken a back seat in the era of managed care. In the olden days, my patients would go for a get-acquainted visit with their pediatrician and go over certain issues.