Effect of Music Therapy on Infants With Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

The Effect of Music Therapy on Neonates Diagnosed With Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: A Pilot Study

This study examines the effects of 6 different music therapy interventions on outcomes for neonates diagnosed with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.

The purpose of this exploratory pilot study is to learn what, if any, effects live music therapy interventions have on the pacification, stabilization, and development of infants diagnosed with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is a group of problems that occur in a newborn who has been exposed to illegal or prescription opiates while in the mother's womb. Participants will receive 6 music therapy sessions over a 14-day period based on a randomized treatment schedule of 6 different interventions.

Inclusion Criteria:

Infants who meet the following inclusion criteria will be eligible to participate in the study irrespective of race, religion, ethnicity, or gender:

• Admitted to the NICU immediately postpartum
• Gestational age 28 weeks or older
• No identified hearing disorder
• Do not have a diagnosed developmental disability (i.e. Down Syndrome)
• Do not have Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
• Medically cleared to participate in the study by nurse or neonatologist
• Parent or legal guardian able/willing to give consent & complete the PBQ (Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Admitted to the NICU at any time other than immediately postpartum
• Gestational age <28 weeks old
• Has an identified hearing disorder
• Has diagnosed developmental disability (i.e. Down syndrome)
• Has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
• Is not medically cleared to participate in the study by the nurse or neonatologist
• Parent or legal guardian unable/unwilling to give consent