Providing care for the neonate born to a mother who abuses substances can present a challenge for the health care team. Nursing care for this infant requires a multisystem approach. The first step in the provision of this care is

Question

a. Pharmacologic treatment
b. Reduction of environmental stimuli
c. Neonatal abstinence syndrome scoring
d. Adequate nutrition and maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance

Answer 1

C
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A Pharmacologic treatment is based on the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Symptoms are determined by using a standard assessment tool. Medications of
choice are morphine, phenobarbital, diazepam, or diluted tincture of opium.
B Swaddling, holding, and reducing environmental stimuli are essential in
providing care to the infant who is experiencing withdrawal. These nursing
interventions are appropriate for the infant who displays central nervous system
disturbances.
C Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is the term used to describe the cohort of
symptoms associated with drug withdrawal in the neonate. The Neonatal
Abstinence Scoring System evaluates CNS, metabolic, vasomotor, respiratory,
and gastrointestinal disturbances. This evaluation tool enables the care team to
develop an appropriate plan of care. The infant is scored throughout the length of
stay and the treatment plan is adjusted accordingly.
D Poor feeding is one of the GI symptoms common to this patient population. Fluid
and electrolyte balance must be maintained and adequate nutrition provided.
These infants often have a poor suck reflex and may need to be fed via gavage.