Spotting Early Signs: Pediatric Screening for Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Unfortunately, a lot of times the obstetrician or the family medicine individuals have worked with the birthing individual and have this information and they have it available, but it doesn't get passed on to the team that's providing care for the child in the hospital or the team that's providing ongoing care for the child after discharge.
How can you tell if a child has been exposed to alcohol before birth? In this episode of 'Alcohol and Pregnancy: The More You Know', Dr. Vincent Smith from Boston Medical Center and Boston University dives into this critical question. He explains the methods used to screen for prenatal alcohol exposure in pediatric settings, offering practical tips and insights for healthcare providers and parents alike.
The episode features a standardized patient session that vividly demonstrates how these screenings are conducted, making it easier to understand the process. Adding a personal touch, Sue returns to share her son's journey to an FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) diagnosis. Her story sheds light on the emotional rollercoaster families face when navigating such diagnoses.
Sue's candid account highlights the importance of early identification and proper care, emphasizing that many cases of prenatal alcohol exposure go unnoticed due to gaps in communication between obstetricians and pediatricians. Dr. Smith also discusses the challenges involved in diagnosing FASD, including the necessity of using developmentally appropriate language when explaining the condition to children. The episode doesn't shy away from the broader implications either, touching on how FASD affects interactions with educational and legal systems.
These insights are crucial for anyone involved in the care and support of children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. This episode is a must-listen for healthcare providers, parents, and educators who want to better understand FASD and the importance of early screening. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and hear firsthand stories that bring these issues to life.