Nepean Hospital study aims to reduce unplanned readmissions in children
New research conducted at Nepean Hospital has identified key risk factors associated with unplanned readmissions among children, enabling clinicians to better understand which patients are most at risk and paving the way for targeted improvements in care.
The study, published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, examined more than 21,000 paediatric admissions over a six-year period to a Western Sydney hospital. It found that 6.3% of patients were readmitted unexpectedly within 28 days of discharge.
Clinical Associate Professor Dr Habib Bhurawala, Head of Paediatrics at Nepean Hospital and one of the study’s senior authors, said the research helps shed light on factors that may place certain children at greater risk of returning to hospital shortly after discharge.
“We found that children with chronic conditions like diabetes and those with bronchiolitis had a significantly higher risk of readmission,” says Dr Bhurawala.
“Additionally, First Nations children and those with longer hospital stays were also more likely to be readmitted.”
The study also found that older children were less likely to be readmitted, and the overall risk of readmission was lower during the COVID-19 pandemic period, likely reflecting broader changes in healthcare access and hospital presentations during that time.
Dr Bhurawala says the findings can help inform clinical practice and patient discharge planning.
“These results give us a clearer picture of which patients may need more intensive follow-up after discharge. If we can intervene early, particularly for high-risk groups, we may be able to reduce avoidable readmissions and improve care outcomes for families.”
The research reflects the growing contribution of Nepean Hospital and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s practical, data-driven research that supports high-quality care across metropolitan and regional settings.
“Our team is focused on work that has a real-world impact,” says Dr Bhurawala.
“Reducing unplanned readmissions helps families, reduces pressure on hospital services, and improves health system efficiency.”
The study was a collaboration between clinicians and researchers from Nepean Hospital, The University of Sydney, and partner institutions.
The full study, Identifying High-Risk Patients for Paediatric Unplanned Readmissions: Insights From a Western Sydney Hospital, is available online in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health.