Improving Nurse Knowledge on the Non-Pharmacological Treatments of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

Abstract

By Kyaia Bacon, Nursing; Sarah Adams, Nursing; Brittany Wall, Nursing; Chloe Salzarulo, Nursing; Dana Collopy , Nursing; Paul Lewis, University of Cincinnti

Advisor: Donna Green

Awards: Presenter Award: Excellence in Research Communication

Presentation ID: 89

Abstract: In 2016, it was found that one baby was born every 15 minutes with the diagnosis of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). The prevalence of neonates in the United States with NAS, though plateauing over the years, is still incredibly high and continued action is needed to improve the outcomes of these neonates (VUMC News and Communication, 2020). The purpose of our project was to educate nurses who provide care to neonates experiencing NAS on current non pharmacological nursing interventions. The basis of the education was to improve the knowledge and ability to implement these interventions in the clinical setting. We conducted a 10-15 minute educational session along with a pre and post education survey. The education presentation included statistics on the length of stay for these neonates after undergoing interventions such as: swaddling, skin to skin contact, breast milk feeds, private rooms, or low stimulation environments. 16 nurses attended our education session and completed both surveys. The results of the surveys showed an overall increase in knowledge across all topics discussed. The average overall post-test score was 4.97, compared to 4.23 for the pre-test. The following feedback was provided by participating nurses: clear and concise, informative, useful techniques, well presented. In conclusion our hope is for future education on non pharmacological interventions to be implemented in the NICU at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.