The occasional management of narcotic exposure in neonates
La gestion occasionnelle de l'exposition aux stupéfiants chez les nouveau-nés
Len Kelly, Bryanne Minty, Sharen Madden, Joe Dooley, Irwin Antone
Details
ISSN Number: 12037796
Language: English/French
Format: PDF
Pages: 24–27
Content Summary
This article addresses the management of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in neonates exposed to narcotics, particularly in rural and remote areas like northwestern Ontario. It highlights the increasing incidence of narcotic use during pregnancy and the subsequent withdrawal symptoms in newborns. The paper discusses the challenges of diagnosing and treating NAS, emphasizing the use of the Modified Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Score Sheet for assessment. Treatment options include nonpharmaceutical methods and oral morphine, with phenobarbital as an alternative. The article underscores the importance of breastfeeding and rooming-in to reduce NAS severity and supports rural clinicians in managing these cases effectively.