Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder - Quality standard

Latest quality standard published sets out how health and care services can improve the diagnosis, assessment, and prevention of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

The quality standard highlights five key areas for improvement:

• Pregnant women are given advice throughout pregnancy not to drink alcohol.
• Pregnant women are asked about their alcohol use throughout their pregnancy, and this is recorded.
• Children and young people with probable prenatal alcohol exposure and significant physical, developmental, or behavioural difficulties are referred for assessment.
• Children and young people with confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure or all 3 facial features associated with prenatal alcohol exposure have a neurodevelopmental assessment if there are clinical concerns.
• Children and young people with a diagnosis of FASD have a management plan to address their needs.

These statements are designed to help local service providers identify areas for improvement.