In the context of emergency medicine, why is Naloxone administered to neonates born to opioid-dependent mothers?

Naloxone is administered to neonates born to opioid-dependent mothers primarily to prevent neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Infants exposed to opioids in utero can experience withdrawal symptoms after birth because their bodies transition from receiving the substance through the placenta to an opioid-free environment. NAS can lead to a range of complications, including poor feeding, irritability, seizures, and respiratory problems.

By using Naloxone, which is an opioid antagonist, healthcare providers can quickly reverse the effects of opioids on newborns, thereby mitigating the risk or severity of withdrawal symptoms associated with NAS. This proactive approach helps protect the well-being of the infant as they transition to life outside the womb, offering a crucial intervention in emergency medical settings.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of infant care that do not directly relate to the primary purpose of Naloxone in this context. Improving respiratory function may be necessary in certain situations, but Naloxone’s primary role is specifically to manage the effects of opioids. Treating infections is irrelevant and unrelated to the effects of opioid exposure, and enhancing feeding tolerance is oftentimes a secondary concern after addressing the immediate risks of NAS.