Indications for Discharging Pediatric Patient with Community Acquired Pneumonia

Number of hours that the patient has shown a documented overall clinical improvement

Is the patient's mental status stable and/or has it returned to baseline?

Number of hours that the pulse oximetry readings are consistenlty > 90% on room air for > 12 hours

Does the patient show a sustained work of breathing?

Does the patient show sustained tachycardia and/or tachypnea?

Has the patient had a chest tube while in the hospital?

Has the tube been removed for at least 12 hours without signs of deterioration?

Has the patient been exposed to and tolerated the post-discharge therapeutic regimen?

Have the parents or caregivers shown that they are able to give the patient the required drugs at home?

Is there good evidence that home care will be adequate?

Will a parent or guardian be able to bring the child back for follow-up or if the child deteriorates?