The nurse is caring for a two-hour-old newborn with neonatal abstinence syndrome. The nurse plans to
The nurse is caring for a two-hour-old newborn with neonatal abstinence syndrome. The nurse plans to
A. decrease the newborn’s sensory stimulation.
[68%]
B. obtain a prescription for central nervous stimulant.
[8%]
C. loosely wrap the neonate in a blanket.
[8%]
D. place the newborn in a stimulating environment.
[16%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Newborn
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice A is correct. This newborn is experiencing neonatal abstinence syndrome. While experiencing this highly uncomfortable syndrome, the infant is irritable and very sensitive to environmental stimuli. The newborn client should have limited sensory input to allow extensive rest periods.
Choice B is incorrect. The nurse should plan to obtain a prescription for CNS depressants because the infant is often agitated and may be at risk for seizures. Medications like clonidine, lorazepam, and phenobarbital may be utilized.
Choice C is incorrect. The neonate should be wrapped tightly in a flexed position to promote rest.
Choice D is incorrect. Increasing environmental stimuli can exacerbate the newborn's irritability and restlessness. An environment with decreased stimulation is recommended.
Additional Info
✓ Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a disorder in which infants exposed to maternal drugs before birth demonstrate signs of drug withdrawal.
✓ NAS occurs in infants who have suffered prenatal opiate exposure sufficient to cause withdrawal signs after birth.
✓ Infants with NAS may be irritable and have hyperactive muscle tone and a high-pitched cry. Although they have tremors, their blood glucose level is normal.
✓ Infants appear hungry and suck vigorously on their fists but have poor coordination in sucking and swallowing. Frequent regurgitation, vomiting, and diarrhea are common. Infants are restless, and their excessive activity and poor feeding ability fail to gain weight.
✓ Seizures may occur, which may be life-threatening.
✓ Interventions for NAS include -
- Obtain a urine specimen from the infant to determine the substance.
- A meconium analysis may also be performed.
- More frequent feedings are necessary with a higher calorie content.
- Feeding may be difficult, so gavage feeding may be necessary.
- Maintain a quiet environment with low stimulus.
- Swaddle the infant in a flexed position.
- Use a calm approach when caring for an infant.
