Fetal Alcohol Syndrome The Effects of Alcohol on a Fetus...

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is caused by fetal exposure to alcohol during pregnancy and is characterized by specific patters of fetal deformities. Researchers are unsure at what stage in the pregnancy these malformations occur or the amount of alcohol consumed to cause these deformities. FAS is the leading cause of mental retardation that is preventable. There are usually three factors pertaining to a diagnosis of FAS: â€Å"the presence of prenatal/postnatal growth retardation, craniofacial anomalies, and central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities.† (Pinto Pravikoff, 2008)Other disorders including fetal alcohol effects (FAE) and alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND), and alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD) may be present†¦show more content†¦Many times a diagnosis goes undetected due to signs and symptoms not being recognized. During a physical assessment and obtaining a history on FAS patients and pregnant women, the care provider is responsible for assessing risk factors as well as presenting problems in these patients. A fetus’ exposure to alcohol during pregnancy can be assessed or monitored by screening tools including blood tests and urinalysis on the fetus and mother to show the frequency, duration, and quantity of alcohol the pregnant woman is consuming. During the physical assessment of the fetus or infant the care provider should notice facial features such as: small palpebral (eyelids) fissures, smooth philtrum (groove between upper lip and nose), thin upper lip, small eyes with short slits, epicanthal folds, wide flat nasal bridge, micrognathia (small jaw), and ear defects. An MRI can also be performed and the results may show structural brain abnormalities like microencephaly. (Pinto Pravikoff, 2008) Treatment for FAS includes resuscitation, evaluation of deficit severity, and prevention ofShow MoreRelated Alcohol And The Fetus Essay1518 Words   |  7 Pages Know When to Say When nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Drinking during pregnancy is often thought of as no big deal. However, drinking during pregnancy is a very big deal. An unborn baby’s life is in the hands of the mother. If she decides to drink, she is risking the unborn’s chances of being as smart and healthy as it can be. Drinking during pregnancy opens the doors to a variety of harmful effects on the mother and her unborn baby, and until this is brought out in the open with honesty, it cannotRead MoreThe Effects Of Alcohol And Its Effects On Children856 Words   |  4 Pages Alcohol plays a major role in today’s society. Everywhere we look, something is advertising alcohol. Alcohol is consumed for many purposes, whether it be for a celebration, out of boredom, or a way to relax. 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