Abuse and Neglect of Healthy Newborn by Parents: A Social Problem with a Long History
Ahmadshah Farhat1, Ali Ghasemi2, Ashraf Mohammadzadeh3
1Neonatologist, Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Neonatal Research Center, Imam Reza Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad, Iran .
Insights
This case highlights a newborn infant found in garbage, exhibiting signs of abuse and neglect. Early intervention and social support are crucial for preventing child abuse and neglect.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Child abuse and neglect are significant public health issues requiring urgent attention.
- Neonatal outcomes are profoundly impacted by adverse early life experiences.
Observation:
- A two-day-old infant was discovered abandoned and presented with irritability, dehydration, and burn injuries.
- Urine toxicology confirmed the presence of opium, suggesting maternal substance use or exposure.
- The infant received phenobarbital for irritability and was later placed with a welfare organization.
Findings:
- The case underscores the critical need for robust social support systems for vulnerable newborns.
- Early identification and management of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and abuse indicators are vital.
Implications:
- Home visits by welfare organizations are a promising strategy for preventing child abuse and neglect.
- This case emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between healthcare providers and social services for child protection.
Abstract:
A Two-day-old girl who was found in garbage by police and transferred to hospital. She was irritable and dehydrated; also there were burn injuries around her knees and right cheek. Her weight was 3100 grams and physical examinations were normal. Opium was found in urine. Phenobarbital (4 mg/kg/day intravenous every 12 hours) was started for her irritability. After 20 days, infant was entrusted to a welfare organization with coordination of social support of hospital. The prevention of child abuse and neglect is an urgent public health concern. Home visit by welfare organization has been proposed as a promising approach to prevent health and developmental problems among children. We report this case of an abused and neglected newborn.
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