Non-pharmacological interventions in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, from Betty Neuman's perspective: Scoping Review

Authors

  • Isabel Lourenço Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | Unidade Local de Saúde de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal https://orcid.org/0009-0000-9773-653X
  • Alexandra de Sousa Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | Solar Billadones UCC, Figueira do Lorvão, Portugal https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2296-9619
  • Ana Raquel Vaz Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | Unidade Local de Saúde de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal https://orcid.org/0009-0006-4527-9975
  • Anna Escaleira Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | Unidade Local de Saúde de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0012-1239
  • Manuel Cordeiro Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | UICISA:E - Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Viseu, Portugal | UniCiSE- Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde e Educação, Viseu, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5114-1300

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0218e.36924

Keywords:

newborn; neonatal abstinence syndrome; non-pharmacological interventions; specialist nurse; scoping review (SCR)

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in drug use during pregnancy is leading to a dramatic rise in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Non-pharmacological measures should be implemented in order to minimize the physical and sensory stimulation of the newborn (NB).

Objetive: Map the available scientific evidence on non-pharmacological interventions in a newborn with NAS.

Methods: A review based on JBI guidelines, with article selection supported by the PRISMA model. The research question was formulated according to the PCC mnemonic (Participants, Concept and Context), and inclusion and exclusion criteria were established. Search limitations included: published studies, free access to full text, in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and published between january 1, 2021, and december 31, 2023. Seven databases were used.

Results: Fourteen articles were included, with the level of evidence, degree of recommendation, and methodological quality defined. The studies demonstrate the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in managing NAS.

Conclusion: Assessment and treatment for NAS remain unstandardized. The Eat, Sleep, and Console (ESC) approach reduces pharmacological interventions, length of hospital stay, and healthcare costs. Breastfeeding and rooming-in are strong non-pharmacological strategies that promote bonding, development-centered care for the NB and family, and rapid clinical improvement. Nurses play a decisive role in NAS management.

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References

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Published

2025-05-22

How to Cite

Lourenço, I., de Sousa, A., Vaz, A. R., Escaleira, A., & Cordeiro, M. (2025). Non-pharmacological interventions in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, from Betty Neuman’s perspective: Scoping Review. Millenium - Journal of Education, Technologies, and Health, 2(18e), e36924. https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0218e.36924

Issue

Section

Life and Healthcare Sciences