Substance Abuse in Pregnancy

Question 1

Drug Testing

Answer 1

• 1st prenatal visit
• Once positive, will test every time they are seen

Question 2

Barriers to Treatment

Answer 2

• Women fear losing custody of child & criminal prosecution
• Less than 10% of pregnant women receive treatment
• Substance-abuse treatment programs do not address issues affecting pregnant women
• Long waiting lists and lack of health insurance present further barriers to treatment

Question 3

Substance Abuse: Care Management

Answer 3

• Drug testing during pregnancy
• Methadone maintenance program
• BF definitely contraindicated in women who continue to use amphetamines, alcohol, cocaine, heroin, or marijuana
• Substance abusers difficult to care for particulary during intra & postpartum periods
• Substance abuse is an illness; women deserve to be treated w/ patience, kindness, consistency, & firmness

Question 4

Substance Abuse: Before Discharge

Answer 4

• Home situation must be assessed for safe envir’t
• Someone available to meet infant’s needs if mother is unable
• Fam members or friends should become actively involved w/ mother before dc
• If infant’s well-being is questionable, case will be referred to CPS agency

Question 5

Mother tht Continues to Take Drugs

Answer 5

Baby will need to withdraw in NICU

Question 6

Pain Management in Substance Abusers

Answer 6

HARD to manage their pain