Health Care Service Policies and Protocols for Managing Pregnant Women Affected by Alcohol

Each healthcare service needs to have clear policies and clinical protocols to assess and respond to such situations so pregnant women can be sympathetically and effectively cared for immediately, as well as in the longer-term. Having clear policies and protocols will help to support duty of care and good practice in this regard. 

Key questions to ask concerning the pregnant woman in withdrawal are: 

• What stage of gestation is she? 
• What is her general health status? 
• Is she at risk of premature labour? 
• Is she at serious risk from physical or mental illness, injury, poor nutrition, dehydration, infection, violence? 
• How far away is she from the nearest hospital? 
• Does she have dependent children or family members who rely on her (for example, is she a sole parent or carer of others)? 
• Does she need temporary childcare while she is ill? 

Close follow-up and support after discharge is recommended.  Specialist treatment for her drinking as well as the importance of antenatal care should be discussed.  Practical assistance such as assistance with transport and childcare considerations, can enhance engagement in treatment.