Neonatal abstinence syndrome Flashcards
What is Neonatal abstinence syndrome?
Withdrawal symptoms that happens in neonates of mothers that used substances in pregnancy
Which substances can result in Neonatal abstinence syndrome?
- Opiates
- Methadone
- Benzodiazepines
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines
- Nicotine or cannabis
- Alcohol
- SSRI antidepressants
When do signs and symptoms of withdrawal from opiates, diazepam, SSRIs and alcohol occur?
Between 3 – 72 hours after birth.
Withdrawal from which substances occur between 3 – 72 hours after birth?
Withdrawal from most opiates, diazepam, SSRIs and alcohol
When does withdrawal from methadone and other benzodiazepines occur?
Between 24 hours and 21 days.
Withdrawal from which substances occur between 24 hours and 21 days?
Withdrawal from methadone and other benzodiazepines
What are possible CNS symptoms due to withdrawal?
- Irritability
- Increased tone
- High pitched cry
- Not settling
- Tremors
- Seizures
What are possible Vasomotor and respiratory symptoms that can occur due to withdrawal?
- Yawning
- Sweating
- Unstable temperature and pyrexia
- Tachypnoea (fast breathing)
What are possible Metabolic and gastrointestinal symptoms that can occur due to withdrawal?
- Poor feeding
- Regurgitation or vomiting
- Hypoglycaemia
- Loose stools with a sore nappy area
What is the general management of neonatal abstinence syndrome?
Babies are kept in hospital with monitoring on a NAS chart for at least 3 days
A urine sample can be collected from the neonate to test for substances.
The neonate should be supported in a quiet and dim environment with gentle handling and comforting.
What is the medical management for opiate withdrawal?
Oral morphine sulphate
What is the medical management for non-opiate withdrawal?
Oral phenobarbitone
For how long do neonates experiencing SSRI antidepressant withdrawal need to be monitored?
48 hours
