Marijuana Use Effects on Fetus, Research Paper Example

Introduction

Marijuana use by expectant mothers may have a significant impact on fetal development and drug dependency in unborn children (MacMullen et.al, 2014). The prevalence of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) reflects the symptoms of withdrawal for neonates who have become dependent on substances in the womb (MacMullen et.al, 2014). It is necessary to examine the existing evidence regarding this condition and to reflect upon nursing-led interventions to accommodate patient care needs (MacMullen et.al, 2014).

Analysis

An article by MacMullen et.al (2014) addresses the importance of evidence-based nursing practice in supporting patients with NAS in order to prevent long-term complications.

Nursing practice objectives must include interventions such as supportive-swaddling and nutritional support to enable patients to overcome their dependent tendencies (MacMullen et.al, 2014).The evidence strongly suggests that supportive interventions are a viable means of addressing this condition, including the identification of risk and other factors that impact patient care and treatment effectively (MacMullen et.al, 2014). Since withdrawal may be difficult, patients must be provided with nursing-led interventions that will minimize the symptoms of withdrawal and promote normalcy in patient recovery (MacMullen et.al, 2014). Similarly, psychosocial interventions may be appropriate in order to provide patients with substance abuse issues prior to birth (Brandon, 2014).

Conclusion

The use of marijuana may have a negative impact on neonates, as evidenced by nurses in prior research protocols. Therefore, these issues must be considered and must provide a framework for nurses as they address these issues in the practice setting. It is likely that prior evidence will play a significant role in the intervention process and in determining the overall impact of these conditions on patients who have become dependent on the substance and are experiencing withdrawal. This information must be derived from research –based studies to ensure that the best possible evidence is utilized in nursing-based decision-making for these patients.

References

Brandon, A. R. (2014). Psychosocial Interventions for Substance Use During Pregnancy. The Journal of perinatal & neonatal nursing, 28(3), 169-177.

MacMullen, N. J., Dulski, L. A., & Blobaum, P. (2014). Evidence-based interventions for neonatal abstinence syndrome. Pediatric nursing, 40(4), 165.