Causes
Occurs when alcohol is exposed before birth.
Behavioral Effects
Irritability (infancy)
Hyperactivity (child)
No amount used at any time during pregnancy is considered safe.
Alcohol
1-2 hours
How fast it takes alcohol to cross the placenta and reach the fetus once ingested
Diagnostic Facial Features of FAS
Short palpebral fissure lengths
Smooth philtrum
Thin upper lip
Prevents long-term disabilities.
Early evaluation and implementation of therapy
Amniotic Fluid
Reservoir for alcohol, prolonging fetal exposure.
Neurological Effects
Cognitive impairment
Motor delays
Microcephaly (head circumference below 10th percentile)
Poor coordination
Hypotonia
Hearing disorders
The major goal of nursing care in preventing FASD.
Adequate prenatal care and education of exposure precautions to potentially harmful infections.
Safe amount of alcohol intake
There is no quantity, frequency, or timing of alcohol intake during pregnancy that is considered safe
Growth Effects
Disproportionately low weight to height
Prenatal growth restriction
Persistent postnatal growth lag
Strategies that aim to provide individualized developmental care.
Reducing noxious environmental stimuli, helping the infant achieve self-regulation, monitoring weight gain, analyzing feeding behaviors, and devising strategies to promote nutritional intake.