The scoring system includes a detailed assessment of over 20 symptoms that are commonly observed in infants experiencing withdrawal. These symptoms are divided into three main categories:
CNS Disturbances: This includes symptoms like high-pitched crying, sleep disturbances, and increased muscle tone. Metabolic, Vasomotor, and Respiratory Disturbances: Symptoms under this category include sweating, frequent yawning, and nasal stuffiness. Gastrointestinal Disturbances: This encompasses poor feeding, vomiting, and loose stools.
Each symptom is assigned a score based on its severity and frequency. The total score helps healthcare providers decide on the appropriate treatment pathway.