What assessment tool should a nurse expect to complete for a newborn exhibiting a high-pitched cry?

A newborn exhibiting a high-pitched cry is often assessed using the Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System. This tool is specifically designed to evaluate withdrawal symptoms in newborns, particularly those born to mothers who used opioids or other substances during pregnancy. A high-pitched cry is a classic sign of withdrawal, indicating that the infant may be experiencing discomfort due to substance exposure in utero. The assessment includes evaluating other clinical signs such as tremors, irritability, feeding difficulties, and gastrointestinal issues, all of which help in determining the severity of withdrawal and the need for interventions.

In contrast, the other assessment tools focus on different aspects of newborn health. The Neonatal Pain Assessment Scale evaluates pain levels in infants but does not specifically address withdrawal symptoms. The Apgar Score is used to quickly assess a newborn's overall physical condition at one and five minutes after birth, primarily focusing on respiratory effort, heart rate, muscle tone, reflex response, and skin color—none of which directly relate to signs of drug withdrawal. Lastly, the Neonatal Jaundice Assessment is aimed at evaluating the presence and severity of jaundice in newborns, which is unrelated to a high-pitched cry indicating possible withdrawal.