Methadone and cleft palate

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The number of meth babies have increased dramatically often the past few years. We always have at least 1 and had 5 a few months ago. In the past 6 months, 3 meth babies have had cleft palate. I have been a NICU RN for 7 years and have had 1 cleft palate before this (that I recall). Has anyone else noticed this?

Also, these moms are telling me that the OB told them that the meth wasn't bad for their babies and said that their babies would mostly likely be discharged with them. If they had to stay in the hospital, it would only be a few extra days. This is crazy. Meth babies typically stay for AT LEAST 2 months. I don't think the OB's are lying or negligent, I think that it is an education issue. Has anyone else been told this

Specializes in NICU.

I'm surprised that insurance or Medicaid is willing to pay for these stays at your facilities. Not saying that money is a good reason to make a decision. I'm just wondering how this is paid for.

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It's not as much a matter of, "Mom will sell/take the baby's drugs" You are giving a narcotic to a neonate. There are huge ramifications if you give too much or too little to a withdrawing baby. You all feel comfortable with that?

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I am so sorry that you had such a bad experience. I agree with your statement that clefts have been connected to a variety of things.

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If you win a nobel prize or something, remember me:D

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