Background The British Thoracic Society has outlined the care pathway for infants with chronic lung disease on home oxygen.

Aim To review the service provided to the infants going home on oxygen, by the Neonatal Community Outreach Team (NCOT) at Heart of England NHS Trust.

Methods NCOT patient notes, Badger database and Parent feedback responses were reviewed to evaluate the care provided to babies on home oxygen.

Results During the 14 month study period, 25 babies on home oxygen were cared for in the community by NCOT. Their median gestation at birth was 27 weeks (23–36 weeks) and median birth weight was 865 grams (520–3180 grams). The median gestation at discharge was 40 weeks (35–64 weeks) with a median oxygen requirement of 0.1 litres/minute (0.02- 0.4 litres/minute). The median number of pre-discharge NCOT contacts was 2 (1–12) and post-discharge contacts 21 (7–36). The median number of post-discharge overnight oxygen saturation studies was 2 (1–7). During the study period, 20 babies came off oxygen with a median post-discharge time of 12 weeks (1–27 weeks). A respiratory syncitial virus vaccination program was successfully completed. The NCOT also facilitated a monthly ‘Little Stars’ parents meeting and advisory group. The NCOT service had a 100% satisfaction response on parent survey (75% responders).

Conclusion NCOT have provided an excellent service in the community to babies on home oxygen enabling early discharge from neonatal unit whilst appropriately managing oxygen therapy in the community and providing family support and education.