The Positive Direction Model

There are immediate concerns for a woman using opioids during pregnancy along with her infant being exposed to opioids in utero resulting in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).  NAS:  withdrawal symptoms experienced by the infant after birth affecting the autonomic, gastrointestinal and the neurological systems.  The National Survey on Drug Use and Health Statistics in their 2014 research stated: an estimated 225,000 infants are exposed to illicit substances each year and the numbers are increasing; every 25 minutes an infant is born exposed to opioids and is diagnosed with NAS.  In 2014 the annual health care cost was $1.5 billion for infants with NAS admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and stayed for 16 or more days.  The health care costs can be lowered if information / education regarding opioids & pregnancy are given to the mother early.

The Positive Direction Model is an educational guide specifically for pregnant women, families and advocates as they are collaborating with health care / medical providers during pregnancy under the guidance of a Navigator.   The Positive Direction Model prepares the mother of expectations during pregnancy along with understanding NAS.  The results of the Positive Direction Model:  increase self-efficacy, a safe delivery of the infant and continued sobriety for a healthy environment beyond the pregnancy.