The Journey from Hospital to Home
Bringing a newborn home is one of life’s most cherished milestones, but for families with substance-exposed newborns or babies experiencing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), the road from hospital to home can feel uncertain. At Jacob’s Hope, our mission is to make this transition as smooth and supportive as possible by offering specialized care in a quiet, nurturing environment specifically designed for babies in withdrawal.
What Is NAS in Newborns?
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) develops after a baby is born and no longer gets certain drugs or medicine from the mother. Some examples include fentanyl, heroin, methadone, buprenorphine, suboxone, and other prescription medication. After birth, they may experience withdrawal symptoms as their bodies adjust. Signs of withdrawal in newborns can include tremors, excessive crying, trouble feeding, irritability, excessive sneezing, difficulty sleeping, and gastrointestinal problems.
Understanding the Need for Specialized Care
Many substance-exposed newborns are unnecessarily admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), a space designed for critically ill babies. However, babies with NAS are not critically ill—they are simply experiencing withdrawal and need a calm, quiet environment where they can be soothed and cared for using best practices.
At Jacob’s Hope, our dedicated nursery is an ideal setting for these babies, providing the specialized care they need without the overstimulation and high-intensity treatment of a NICU. Our space is specifically designed to promote healing and comfort, creating a peaceful environment that supports their unique needs.
A Smooth Transition
Most infants with NAS are ready to transfer out of the hospital as early as 24 hours after birth. They don’t require the high-level medical interventions provided in a NICU but need a more supportive environment than a traditional nursery. Unfortunately, hospitals often send these infants to the NICU by default.
At Jacob’s Hope, we work closely with hospitals throughout Arizona to offer a better alternative. Our team connects with the family prenatally whenever possible to plan for a smooth transition. Alternatively, when a baby is born and identified as substance-exposed, we coordinate with the delivering hospital to transfer the baby to our specialized nursery. Our goal is to ensure babies receive the right care in the right environment, without unnecessary time in the NICU.
Room-In With Your Baby
One of the unique aspects of our care is the involvement of parents and caregivers throughout the process. In our private, room-in suites, families can stay with their baby and actively participate in their care. Our clinical team is always available to provide hands-on education, guiding families on the Eat, Sleep, and Console method and offering support every step of the way. This approach empowers parents to care for their infants confidently, laying the foundation for a successful transition home.
The Eat, Sleep, and Console (ESC) Approach
The Eat, Sleep, and Console (ESC) method has transformed the way we care for infants with NAS. Instead of relying on medications, ESC focuses on the baby’s most basic needs—ensuring they are fed, comfortable, and able to sleep well. Families play a critical role in this process by providing comforting touch, holding, feeding, and soothing their babies. This hands-on approach allows parents to bond with their infants while learning how to meet their unique needs during withdrawal.
24-Hour Medical Care and Expert Team
At Jacob’s Hope, your baby is in the best hands. Our facility provides 24-hour medical care with experienced nurses and nursing assistants on-site around the clock. We are directed by a top-notch neonatologist who specializes in neonatal care and leads the clinical decisions for each baby.
While many babies only need the basic support that ESC provides, we are fully equipped to manage more complex needs. If necessary, we can provide:
- Phototherapy for jaundice
- Gavage feeding (tube feeding) for infants who struggle with feeding initially
- Medications to alleviate NAS symptoms when non-pharmacological methods are not enough
- Labs to monitor the baby’s health and well-being
- Lactation support to help mothers who wish to breastfeed their babies
Our highly skilled clinical team ensures that every baby receives the care they need without the intense interventions of a NICU.
A Nonjudgmental, Compassionate Environment
At Jacob’s Hope, we are committed to providing a nonjudgmental environment where families feel supported, not scrutinized. We understand that every journey is unique, and our goal is to help families focus on what matters most—caring for and bonding with their baby.
We also understand that many families have other considerations, such as working with the Department of Child Safety (DCS). Our hospital liaison works closely with DCS to address any pending needs, helping to reduce stress and ensure that families are set up for success when they leave our nursery.
Once babies are ready to go home, we send families off with the confidence and resources they need to enjoy this new chapter together. With the tools they’ve gained in our care, parents can feel secure in managing their baby’s needs and thriving as a family.
At Jacob’s Hope, we are here to walk with you every step of the way, from the pregnancy to hospital to home. Together, we can ensure your baby’s journey is filled with love, care, and support.