Implementation of a Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Educational Program

Abstract

Background/Problem: At a project site located in western North Carolina a knowledge deficit existed among Nursery and Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) nurses related to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Additionally, it was postulated that there was dissatisfaction among NAS parents. Significance: During the past years, NAS has become a substantial health concern for many newborns in the United States. According to the project site’s admission records, the NICU has experienced a fivefold increase in admissions related to NAS over the previous three years. Purpose: The primary purpose of this project was to implement a standardized education program to improve the care of NAS population. A secondary goal of improving NAS parent satisfaction was also undertaken. Method: Nursery and NICU nurses attended a formal NAS education program offered on site. The classes included viewing a DVD on the use of the Finnegan scoring tool and reviewing an educational NAS pamphlet for staff to use in working with NAS parents. The Nursery/NICU nurses performed 3 tandem Finnegan scorings of a NAS or NAS at risk infant with project coordinator; once prior to the NAS education class, and twice following attendance. In the months prior to the implementation period of the project, NAS parent satisfaction scores were collected, and later compared to the NAS parent satisfaction scores gathered following the implementation of the NAS education program. Key Outcomes: The implementation of a standardized NAS education program improved nurse’s reliability in use the Finnegan scoring tool, and led to improvement in NAS parent satisfaction.