In a heartwarming initiative, a volunteer program is providing comfort to infants suffering from drug withdrawal symptoms. This cuddler program is particularly beneficial for newborns born dependent on opioids, aiding them in their recovery process and reducing the need for medication. The program addresses the challenges faced by the youngest victims of the opioid crisis affecting the nation.
Infants enrolled in this program experience neonatal abstinence syndrome, a collection of withdrawal symptoms stemming from exposure to heroin or other opioids during pregnancy. These vulnerable newborns endure painful symptoms such as muscle rigidity, tremors, skin irritability, diarrhea, and vomiting. They also tend to cry more intensely and exhibit higher levels of irritability. Fortunately, the cuddling they receive from volunteers has proven to be remarkably effective in soothing their distress.
At the Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC in Pittsburgh, health professionals have observed that babies participating in the Cuddler Program require less medication to manage withdrawal symptoms and are discharged from the hospital sooner. “Cuddling plays a crucial role in helping them cope with these challenges,” notes Dr. Emily Johnson, the hospital’s chief nursing officer. “These infants are often difficult to console; this program focuses on providing them with the comfort and security they desperately need.”
The need for such programs is critical, particularly as the United States grapples with a severe opioid addiction crisis. In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a record number of drug overdose deaths, with opioids being involved in over 60% of these cases. The statistics are staggering, with approximately 78 individuals succumbing to opioid overdoses daily. Prescription painkillers, including oxycodone and hydrocodone, have contributed significantly to this alarming trend.
In Pittsburgh, the impact of the opioid epidemic is palpable for hospital staff and volunteers. The Cuddler Program was established a decade ago in response to the rising number of infants born with opioid dependencies. Currently, the hospital admits five to seven infants experiencing withdrawal symptoms each day. Nancy Thompson, a dedicated volunteer, has been cuddling infants for four years and maintains contact with one child through her adoptive family. “Seeing her flourish into a happy little girl has been incredibly fulfilling,” she shared.
While the cuddler program cannot solve the broader issues related to the opioid crisis, its contributions to improving the lives of these innocent children are invaluable. “We hope that by providing comfort, we can help them grow into stronger and happier individuals,” Thompson emphasized.
If you’re interested in supporting this vital initiative, there is a waiting list to join the Cuddler Program at Magee-Womens Hospital.
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In summary, the volunteer cuddler program at Magee-Womens Hospital is making a meaningful impact on the lives of infants suffering from opioid withdrawal. By providing comfort and support, volunteers are helping these newborns on their path to recovery, highlighting the need for compassionate care in the wake of the opioid crisis.
Keyphrase: volunteer cuddler program for infants
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