A nurse is caring for a newborn who is experiencing neonatal abstinence syndrome. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Encourage frequent eye contact with the newborn during feedings: While eye contact supports bonding, it can overstimulate infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome. These newborns often struggle with processing sensory input, and sustained eye contact may lead to increased irritability or stress. B. Provide frequent stimulation for the newborn: Excessive stimulation, such as noise or handling, can aggravate symptoms like tremors, crying, and poor feeding. These infants benefit more from a quiet, low-stimulation environment that helps them regulate their nervous system. C. Wrap the newborn loosely in a blanket: Loose wrapping fails to provide the gentle pressure needed to soothe the infant. A snug swaddle helps reduce excessive movement and startle reflex, making the newborn feel secure and calm. D. Decrease the lighting levels in the nursery: Lowering lights creates a more calming environment and reduces sensory overload. This helps lessen irritability, promotes sleep, and is a standard comfort measure for neonates with withdrawal symptoms.