Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Program
Our Specialized Care
The Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) Program at Children's Specialized
Hospital is specially designed to help infants overcome the serious health
effects of prenatal exposure to drugs in utero. They often have serious
health effects and undergo a withdrawal process after they are born. Upon
admission, infants at risk for NAS are carefully monitored by highly skilled
clinicians for signs consistent with withdrawal and development. Based
on the results of their ongoing assessments, each young patient is cared
for based on their individual needs.
Our Individualized Approach
During the inpatient stay in the Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Program, our team provides innovative programming and expert care to achieve the greatest outcomes.
In order to ensure our smallest patients are able to develop and grow to reach their full potential, we create a nurturing environment by implementing positive sensory inputs such as:
- Bathing
- Swaddling
- Therapeutic touch and handling
- Vestibular sensations such as rocking
Our holistic and medical approach includes:
- Aquatic and physical therapy used to increase range of motion and positioning
- Comprehensive nursing assessments
- Medication management (including tapering and discontinuation of medication)
- Monitoring weight gain, growth charts and nutrition
- Occupational therapy and infant massage used for self-calming and visual motor stimulation
In preparation for discharge, parents and caregivers are given training in medication, CPR and feeding. Additionally, our medical staff communicates with parents and caregivers post-discharge regarding the care provided and progress.
Health Effects of Prenatal Drug Use on Newborns
The NAS Program treats newborns affected by exposure to various drugs in utero. These health effects can include:
- Failure to thrive
- Irritability from withdrawal symptoms
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Inability to sleep
Learn more about our Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Program (English OR Spanish)