Child Welfare Academy Competency Exam Practice

Neonatal abstinence syndrome is neonatal withdrawal that occurs when a newborn is exposed to drugs, most commonly opioids, in the womb. In child welfare practice, the response should be comprehensive and coordinated, not limited to medical care alone. Start with a thorough medical assessment of the infant’s withdrawal symptoms and medical needs, then develop a coordinated treatment plan that includes medical management, feeding and sleep support, and planning for safe discharge. Equally important is educating the family about NAS, its signs, and how to manage it, while connecting the caregiver to substance-use treatment and ongoing supports. Link the family to inpatient or outpatient services as needed, and arrange for ongoing case management, preventive safety planning, and developmental supports such as early intervention or home visiting. This holistic approach reflects NAS as a medical-social issue that requires collaboration across health care, child welfare, and family services to ensure the infant’s safety, health, and long-term development.