Sec. 07.02.08.05. Assessment

A. Promptly after receiving a report, the local department shall assess the safety of, and risk of harm to, the newborn to determine whether any further intervention is necessary.

B. The assessment may include but is not limited to consideration of the following:

(1) Prior child protective services involvement;

(2) The mother’s prior delivery of a substance-exposed newborn;

(3) The nature and extent of mother’s alcohol and controlled drug use and treatment history;

(4) The mother’s level of cooperation and willingness to address concerns;

(5) The extent and availability of the newborn’s family or other individuals to assist with caregiving and the provision of other support;

(6) Evidence of preparations for the newborn’s birth;

(7) Availability of stable housing with no apparent safety or health hazards; and

(8) The nature and extent of drug use in the home.

C. If, after the assessment, intervention is necessary, the local department shall:

(1) Develop a plan of safe care for the newborn;

(2) Refer the family for appropriate services including alcohol or controlled drug treatment; and

(3) As necessary, develop a plan to monitor the safety of the newborn and the family’s participation in appropriate services.