What should you assume about a newborn if the mother was addicted to a substance during pregnancy?

When considering a newborn whose mother was addicted to a substance during pregnancy, it is generally understood that there is a significant risk of complications related to the mother's substance use. This includes the possibility of the newborn experiencing withdrawal symptoms, also known as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), depending on the substance involved.

Assuming the newborn is overdosed is a misunderstanding of the typical scenario. While it is true that newborns can display symptoms associated with withdrawal from substances such as opioids or alcohol, it does not typically indicate that they are in an overdose state at birth. Instead, the focus is on the physiological and developmental issues that may arise from prenatal exposure to the substance, which can include problems in growth, neurological function, and behavior.

In cases of substance use during pregnancy, healthcare providers are vigilant about monitoring the newborn for any signs of withdrawal, as these symptoms can manifest shortly after birth. Thus, the correct assumption in this context is typically that the newborn may be in withdrawal or could potentially experience health issues, rather than the assertions made in other options regarding the newborn being healthy, without issues, or overdosed. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective neonatal care and intervention.