Natalie Linn1, Kimberly Stephens, Brenda Swanson-Biearman, Deborah Lewis, Kimberly Whiteman. 1. Natalie Linn is an Assistant Professor at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Steubenville, OH, and is a graduate of Waynesburg University, Waynesburg, PA. The author can be reached via email at nlinn@franciscan.edu Dr. Kimberly Stephens is an Associate Professor of Nursing, Waynesburg University, Waynesburg, PA. Dr. Brenda Swanson-Biearman is an Assistant Professor, Department of Health Administration & Public Health, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Deborah Lewis is a Senior Educator, Excela Health System Education, Greensburg, PA. Dr. Kimberly Whiteman is an Associate Professor of Nursing, Waynesburg University, Waynesburg, PA.
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Purpose: To improve outcomes of infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) by implementing an evidence-based approach to care. Methods: An interdisciplinary team developed and implemented an educational module about the elements and principles of trauma-informed care (TIC) and standardized education on NAS for mothers with substance use disorder (SUD). The team collaborated with community behavioral health professionals to secure the services of a certified recovery specialist. Primary outcome measures of average length of stay (LOS) and admissions to special care nursery (SCN) for NAS infants were analyzed. Results: Following health care team education on TIC and implementation of the standardized NAS brochure, average LOS decreased significantly from 6.5 to 5.1 days from baseline period (January-December 2019) to the implementation period (February-June 2020; p = 0.03). There was no difference in SCN admission from the baseline period (February-June 2019) to the implementation period (February-June 2020). Referrals to certified recovery specialists did not change.Clinical Implications: Education on the impact of trauma on new mothers with SUD can promote collaboration between them and the neonatal team. Standardizing education for new mothers of infants with NAS can help to engage families of infants with NAS and improve clinical outcomes.
ABSTRACT: Purpose: To improve outcomes of infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) by implementing an evidence-based approach to care. Methods: An interdisciplinary team developed and implemented an educational module about the elements and principles of trauma-informed care (TIC) and standardized education on NAS for mothers with substance use disorder (SUD). The team collaborated with community behavioral health professionals to secure the services of a certified recovery specialist. Primary outcome measures of average length of stay (LOS) and admissions to special care nursery (SCN) for NAS infants were analyzed. Results: Following health care team education on TIC and implementation of the standardized NAS brochure, average LOS decreased significantly from 6.5 to 5.1 days from baseline period (January-December 2019) to the implementation period (February-June 2020; p = 0.03). There was no difference in SCN admission from the baseline period (February-June 2019) to the implementation period (February-June 2020). Referrals to certified recovery specialists did not change.Clinical Implications: Education on the impact of trauma on new mothers with SUD can promote collaboration between them and the neonatal team. Standardizing education for new mothers of infants with NAS can help to engage families of infants with NAS and improve clinical outcomes.