The impact of preterm birth on the family and society. Part 2: Transition to home.

The birth of a preterm infant and the transition from the acute care of the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) to home can impose many emotional and financial stresses on the family. This article, the second in a series on the impact of preterm infants on the family, discusses the issues that must be considered by the nurse in planning for the discharge of these infants, who may have complex medical needs at home. The coordination of these home services and advocacy for preterm infants and their families is an important role for nurses.