Makindo Medical Notes"One small step for man, one large step for Makindo" |
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πΌ Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) occurs when neonates experience withdrawal after exposure to opioids, benzodiazepines, nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs in utero. It is a growing issue in neonatal units worldwide and requires both medical and social care coordination.
This tool grades the severity of NAS and guides management. Scores are assessed regularly (every 2β4 hrs) to decide if pharmacological treatment is needed.
| Feature | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tremors | Normal | Mild β when hungry/disturbed | Moderate/marked when undisturbed, settles when held | Marked continuous tremors or seizure-like |
| Irritability | None | Mild | Moderate when disturbed | Marked, even when undisturbed |
| Reflexes | Normal | Increased | Markedly β | - |
| Stools | Normal | Explosive, normal freq. | Explosive, >8/day | - |
| Muscle tone | Normal | Increased | Rigid | - |
| Skin | Normal | Redness (knees/elbows) | Skin breakdown | - |
| Respiratory rate | <55 | 55β75 | 76β95 | - |
| Sneezing / Yawning | No | Repetitive | - | - |
| Vomiting | No | Yes | - | - |
| Fever | No | Yes | - | - |