Wrapped in Care : Treating Opioid-Exposed Newborns

Care for newborns with opioid exposure through compassion, continuity, and long-term support.

When the tiniest patients face the toughest beginnings, compassion can be the most powerful medicine. At Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, a new wave of care is replacing judgment with hope — offering mothers and their newborns exposed to substances in the womb a fighting chance, not just for survival, but for a future full of support, connection, and love.().

Opioid Exposure in Womb Modifies Brain Function in Infants
Opioid use in pregnancy has become a major public health crisis. Exposure to opioids in utero is believed to have lasting consequences on brain development and behavior.

‘Did You Know?
Babies with prenatal substance exposure can thrive with early, non-judgmental intervention. #maternalcare #medindia ’

From Punishment to Compassion

Oklahoma Children's Hospital has enhanced the discharge process for neonatal abstinence syndrome patients through a project funded by the American Academy of Pediatrics, focusing on best practices and soothing techniques for mothers and babies.

Long-term Unemployment Linked to Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a withdrawal syndrome in babies exposed to opioids before birth. It occurs in counties in the US having long-term unemployment and a shortage of mental health services.

Discharge Planning and Home Support

A collaborative project aims to provide continuity of care for mothers and babies affected by substance use. The team, including physicians, nurses, social services providers, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, focuses on discharge planning and supporting the family at home.

The team reinforces soothing strategies in the hospital, such as providing a "sleep sack" and teaching caregivers to console fussy babies. They also emphasize safe sleep at home, encouraging caregivers to use a crib or "pack and play" instead of letting babies sleep with parents.

Women can Decrease Exposure to Opioids After Cesarean Delivery
Women could reduce opioids without experiencing greater pain after cesarean section delivery by eating healthy and moving around sooner after surgery, reports a new study.

Developmental Care and Proven Practices

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is implementing Little STAR, an early intervention program for babies exposed to prenatal substances, preparing caregivers for potential negative outcomes. Services continue up to age 7, part of a national effort to improve neonatal abstinence syndrome care.

References:

Opioid use disorder in pregnancy- (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6881108/#s9)

Source-University of Oklahoma

How Does Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Impact State Medicaid Programs?
In this study financial impacts of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and opioid use during pregnancy on the state Medicaid programs are being studied.