Substance Abuse and Pregnancy

In this lesson we will start with the risks to pregnant clients and embryo/fetus/newborn risks of Substance Abuse and Pregnancy, and how Fetal Alcohol Syndrome affects a child’s development. We will explore assessing possible substance use during routine prenatal care, and priority nursing interventions.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this lesson, the learner will be able to:

1. Name 2-4 risks of Substance Abuse during pregnancy to the pregnant client and to the and to embryo/fetus/newborn.
2. Describe 2-4 signs/symptoms of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
3. Identify 3-4 substances used during pregnancy that may affect growth and development of the fetus.