NICE guideline on antibiotics for neonatal infection

Some key recommendations in the guideline that you might wish to comment on are:

 If there have been any concerns about early-onset neonatal infection before a baby is discharged, advise the parents or carers verbally and in writing that they should seek medical help (for example, from NHS Direct or an emergency department, depending on local services) if the baby shows signs of:

altered behaviour (for example, inconsolable crying) or responsiveness (for example, listlessness), or being floppy, or developing difficulties with feeding or tolerating feeds, or temperature abnormality unexplained by environmental factors. (1.1.1.11)

The  risk factors and clinical indicators of possible infection described  (1.2.3.2) and ‘red flags’ (1.2.3.3) to direct clinical actions with regard to starting or withholding antibiotic treatment.

When deciding on the appropriate care setting for a baby, take into account their clinical needs and the competencies necessary to ensure safe and effective care, for example the insertion and care of intravenous cannulas. (1.9.1.2)