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Call to Action: Standardizing Follow-Up Care for Infants Prenatally Exposed to Opioids
Sara L Mills-Huffnagle1, Rhea E Sullivan1, Tammy E Corr1,2
1Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Insights
Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) is increasing. A standardized follow-up care protocol is needed for infants with prenatal opioid exposure to support families and providers, improving outcomes and reducing readmissions.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Pediatric medicine
- Public health
Background:
- Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) rates have significantly increased between 2007 and 2017.
- Prenatal opioid exposure is linked to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants.
- Current follow-up care for affected infants lacks standardization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for the development of a standardized follow-up care protocol for infants with prenatal opioid exposure.
- To emphasize the need for support systems for families and healthcare providers involved in NOWS care.
- To address and overcome barriers to care for these vulnerable populations.
Main Methods:
- This study is a call to action based on existing evidence and clinical observations.
- It highlights the necessity for a protocol addressing family and provider challenges.
- It suggests educational initiatives for families and providers regarding NOWS follow-up.
Main Results:
- A standardized protocol can improve clinical practice and patient care.
- Addressing barriers to care can enhance treatment adherence and effectiveness.
- Improved follow-up may lead to a reduction in hospital readmission rates for NOWS.
Conclusions:
- A standardized protocol for NOWS follow-up care is crucial.
- Support for families and providers is essential for effective management.
- Implementing this protocol can lead to better long-term outcomes for affected infants.
Abstract:
Between 2007 and 2017, rates of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) have drastically increased. Although current evidence suggests that chronic prenatal opioid exposure may result in adverse neurodevelopmental consequences, there is no standardized protocol for the follow-up care of affected patients. We call on the American Academy of Pediatrics to develop a standardized protocol for the follow-up care of infants prenatally exposed to opioids that also supports families and providers. More specifically, special consideration should be given to identifying and providing solutions to barriers of care for families, as well as for providers. Educating families on the importance of follow-up care would also be beneficial, as well as educating providers on how to address family barriers. Prioritizing and attending to this call to action will allow for improvement in practice and patient care over time and potentially reduce hospital readmission rates commonly associated with NOWS.
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