Presentation Information

Breaking Bias, Building Better Care: The New Era of Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Management

• Speaker: Michael Narvey , MD, FRCPC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 75 Mins
• Credits:

Abstract:

Traditional approaches to assessing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) rely on the Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System (FNASS), which is prone to subjectivity, inter-observer variability, and bias that can influence treatment decisions and prolong hospitalization. This presentation examines the limitations of symptom-based scoring and its impact on infant care and family experience.
The Eat, Sleep, Console (ESC) model offers a function-based, family-centered alternative focused on the infant’s ability to eat effectively, sleep adequately, and be consoled within a reasonable time. ESC emphasizes non-pharmacologic strategies and active parental involvement.
Through review of hospital outcome data and quality improvement initiatives, the presentation highlights reductions in pharmacologic therapy, shorter lengths of stay, and improved family satisfaction. Simplified, function-based assessment enhances provider consistency, reduces infant distress, and promotes compassionate, developmentally supportive care.