Understanding Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): Babies Addicted to Drugs

Understanding Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): Babies Addicted to Drugs is organized by Nursing CE Central.

Course Created on: May 21, 2021
Course Expires on: May 21, 2024

Target Audience:
• Registered Nurses (RN)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN/LVN)

Course Overview:
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a growing public health problem in the United States, as it is related to the opioid epidemic. NAS is the leading problem of medical and developmental issues in newborns and can have harmful long-term outcomes.  Nurses, especially those who frequently work with neonates and their mothers, need to be aware of this vulnerable population and the specific care that they need.  This course will examine the incidence of NAS, the clinical presentation, how to assess NAS, treatments, and long-term outcomes based on research and clinical practice guidelines.

Course Outline:
• Introduction
• Incidence of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
• Clinical Presentation
• Neurological Symptoms
• Gastrointestinal Symptoms
• Autonomic Symptoms 
• Scoring NAS
• Nonpharmacological Interventions
• Pharmacological Interventions
• Long-term Outcomes
• Conclusion
• References

Course Objectives:
After completing this course, the learner will be able to:
• Explain what Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is and the corresponding symptomology.  
• List both pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions for treating an infant with neonatal abstinence syndrome. 
• Describe the possible long-term outcomes a child could face after a diagnosis of neonatal abstinence syndrome.