This cohort evaluation investigated the discharge of 15 children within 12 to 24 hours following an uncomplicated appendicectomy who were subsequently supported by an outreach nurse. By monitoring the child’s progress, providing the support the family was expected to require and offering professional back-up for any unforeseen problems the outreach nurse ensured the child’s safety and improved quality of care after early discharge from the hospital. The pivotal importance of the outreach nursing input was demonstrated when the expected visit did not materialise for one child.