The Shared Decision-Making Tool for Caregivers of Children with Prenatal Opioid Exposure: A Pilot and Acceptability Study

Abstract The purpose of this pilot study was to report initial findings about developmental concerns expressed by caregivers of children with prenatal opioid exposure using the Shared Decision-Making Tool, and to assess provider acceptability of incorporating the tool into their workflow. Data were collected from 83 caregivers and five providers from a medical clinic and an early intervention service center. Communication was the most frequently cited concern in four consecutive age categories. Inattention/impulsivity was the second most frequently cited concern in three consecutive age categories. Problem behavior was the third most frequently cited concern in three age categories. All providers ‘strongly agreed’ or ‘agreed’ with all statements on the provider feedback survey, except two instances. Data from this pilot study will guide our next research steps, focusing on psychometric testing and usability feedback from caregivers, before expanding trials of the Shared Decision-Making Tool to a wider geographic area. Findings from this pilot study will also inform the development of caregiver resources for managing areas identified as top concerns through the first five years of childhood.