Feeding Infants with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: Finding the Sweet Spot.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to learn how caregivers who are expert in feeding infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) successfully feed these infants during withdrawal. DESIGN/SAMPLE: Focus group methodology was used to gather information from self-identified experts from three large regional NICUs. Twelve NICU nurses and speech therapists participated in open-ended, recorded discussions. Detailed flip chart notes were taken, reviewed, and verified by the participants before the group ended. RESULTS: Four major themes emerged verified by the participants: (1) optimal medication management, (2) follow the baby's cues, (3) calm and comfortable, and (4) nurture the relationship. Participants reported using both common and creative techniques. Keeping the infant calm was crucial to being successful, as well as maintaining good control of withdrawal signs. Feeding the infant facing away from them to avoid eye contact was used, as well as vertical rocking, continuous butt patting, bundling, "shhing" sound, and a novel feeding position.

Neonatal abstinence syndrome: strategies for care of the drug-exposed infant.

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), a clinical condition that has been recognized for over 30 years, remains a significant clinical issue, although our knowledge of abstinence, its treatment, and outcome continues to grow. The condition is now complicated by polydrug use (which is becoming more prevalent) as well as concomitant use of tobacco, and psychoactive substances that are frequently prescribed to pregnant women. This article reviews the neonatal effects of a variety of substances, discusses the state of the art for clinical care of drug-exposed infants, including NAS patients, and updates the reader on areas of current research.