I think that the infant is suffering from Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, NAS. This occurs when an infant was exposed to drugs while in the intrauterine environment (Hisley, et al., 2015). I believe the newborn is suffering from NAS because the mother has had an addiction to opiods in her past pregnancy. Although she denies using during this pregnancy, the infant is showing hallmark signs and symptoms such as irritability, vomiting, and constant moving and sucking. Labs that can be ordered to confirm my suspected diagnosis include a urine test, meconium stool, and a hair specimen. The urine test is something that would need to be done immediately, while the meconium stool test and hair specimen can be done up to three days after birth (Hisley, et al., 2015).
Interventions that can be implemented to treat the infant include providing the infant with a quiet and dark environment. Infants suffering from NAS are irritable and struggle to sleep, so this will decrease stimuli and promote sleep. Depending on the NAS score, comfort may be provided to the infant by holding and gently rocking to provide safety and comfort.
I believe the infant has Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, or NAS. This happens when an infant is exposed to medications while still in the womb (Hisley, et al., 2015). I believe the newborn has NAS since the mother was addicted to opiates throughout her previous pregnancy. Despite her denial that she used during this pregnancy, the infant is exhibAiting typical signs and symptoms including as irritability, vomiting, and frequent moving and sucking. A urine test, meconium stool, and a hair samples can all be ordered to validate my tentative diagnosis. The urine test must be performed promptly, although the meconium stool test and hair specimen can be performed up to three days after birth (Hisley).
