CDC updates discharge planning guidance for hospitalized EVALI patients

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently updated its discharge planning guidance for clinicians treating patients hospitalized with suspected vaping-associated lung injury. To minimize the risk of readmission or death after discharge, the guidance recommends patients be clinically stable for 24-48 hours prior to hospital discharge and outpatient follow up with a primary care provider or pulmonary specialist, optimally within 48 hours of hospital discharge. National data show that certain discharged patients are more likely to be rehospitalized or die, including older patients and those with chronic conditions. According to the latest CDC update, more than 2,600 patients have been hospitalized for vaping-associated lung injuries in the states, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, and 57 people have died from the condition, known as EVALI.