Early Hospital Discharge in Maternal and Newborn Care

This article highlights the historic precedence of early discharge practices and the debate regarding length of stay for new mothers and newborns in the United States. Although the documented effects of early discharge on maternal and newborn health are inconsistent, research findings universally support follow‐up care for mothers and infants within 1 week of hospital discharge. Research is needed to identify the components and timing of follow‐up care to optimize maternal and newborn outcomes.