Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: Inpatient and Outpatient Diagnosis

Abstract

•Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is an increasing, problematic phenomenon in the United States. •NAS is a collection of withdrawal signs and symptoms in neonates. Some signs and symptoms of neonatal withdrawal include high-pitched or excessive crying, jitteriness, poor temperature regulation, mottling, and vomiting. •It is important to recognize early and appropriate nursing care. There are short- and long-term consequences due to NAS. Early diagnosis and early intervention can reduce developmental delays. •The Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring Tool (FNAST) is a tool utilized to assess the degree of signs of symptoms present. Laura R. Watson, DNP, RNC-OB, is a clinical assistant professor in the School of Nursing at Indiana University‒Purdue University Columbus in Columbus, IN. She can be reached at . Department Editor Mellisa Hall, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, who would like to hear your ideas for future columns, can be reached at .