Implementation of a Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Educational Program

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Crystal L. Mull (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Background/Problem: At a project site located in western North Carolina a knowledge deficit existed among Nursery and Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) nurses related to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Additionally , it was postulated that there was dissatisfaction among NAS parents. Significance: During the past years , NAS has become a substantial health concern for many newborns in the United States. According to the project site's admission records , the NICU has experienced a fivefold increase in admissions related to NAS over the previous three years. Purpose: The primary purpose of this project was to implement a standardized education program to improve the care of NAS population. A secondary goal of improving NAS parent satisfaction was also undertaken. Method: Nursery and NICU nurses attended a formal NAS education program offered on site. The classes included viewing a DVD on the use of the Finnegan scoring tool and reviewing an educational NAS pamphlet for staff to use in working with NAS parents. The Nursery/NICU nurses performed 3 tandem Finnegan scorings of a NAS or NAS at risk infant with project coordinator; once prior to the NAS education class , and twice following attendance. In the months prior to the implementation period of the project , NAS parent satisfaction scores were collected , and later compared to the NAS parent satisfaction scores gathered following the implementation of the NAS education program. Key Outcomes: The implementation of a standardized NAS education program improved nurse's reliability in use the Finnegan scoring tool , and led to improvement in NAS parent satisfaction.

Additional Information

Publication

Other

Mull , C. L. (2017). Implementation of a Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Educational Program. (Unpublished DNP Scholarly Project). East Carolina University , Greenville , North Carolina.

Language: English

Date: 2017

Keywords

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, patient/parent satisfaction, Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Scoring Tool (FNAST), Inter-Observer Reliability

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