Module 7

Learning objective

1. Discuss the role of the nurse in preventing FASD by supporting women with substance use disorders.

Suggested activities or assignments

• Stigma can be perpetuated due to cultural factors and inadequate information. Using CDC’s feature on FASD at www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/FASD-Awareness.html, discuss how our own assumptions potentially impact our methods to address difficult topics, like alcohol use and pregnancy, in clinical care. How has universal screening reduced perceived stigma and bias for other health issues (e.g., malnutrition, domestic violence, depression)?

• Small group changing stigmatizing language activity 

  • Gather in small groups of 3 to 4 students. Choose one of the following statements. 

    • Statement # 1: FASDs are caused when a mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy. 

    • Statement # 2: FASDs are completely preventable if a developing baby is not exposed to alcohol before birth.

    • Statement # 3: Many women are drinking alcohol and not using adequate contraception. This may put them at risk for an alcohol-exposed pregnancy.

  • Discuss ways in which the statement might be stigmatizing. Alter the statement in a way that you believe makes it less stigmatizing. 

  • As a group present to the entire class the original statement, in what ways you thought it might be stigmatizing and how you changed the statement. 

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