Steps You Can Take Before Seeking a Diagnosis  

The following steps will assist families and professionals&nbsp;preparing&nbsp;for a referral to discuss the&nbsp;possible diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Sydrome (FAS).<br><br>Getting a diagnosis is an important process.&nbsp; It is not labelling the child.&nbsp; Rather it:<UL><LI>Provides an explanation to parents about the disability;</LI><LI>Reinforces that the problems are not due to poor parenting skills;</LI><LI>Improves access to services;</LI><LI>May prevent subsequent children being at risk;</LI><LI>Assists parents become advocates for appropriate services.</LI></UL>A paediatrician, neurologist or child psychiatrist can make the diagnosis of FASD. A clinical psychologist is also necessary for testing and further clinical assessment.<BR><BR>Steps you can take in preparation:<OL><LI>Establish a history of alcohol use during pregnancy<LI>Access records where appropriate<LI>Establish any anomalies in the pregnancy e.g., premature birth or mother's illness<LI>Establish the quality of

The following steps will assist families and professionals preparing for a referral to discuss the possible diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Sydrome (FAS).

Getting a diagnosis is an important process.  It is not labelling the child.  Rather it:

• Provides an explanation to parents about the disability;
• Reinforces that the problems are not due to poor parenting skills;
• Improves access to services;
• May prevent subsequent children being at risk;
• Assists parents become advocates for appropriate services.

A paediatrician, neurologist or child psychiatrist can make the diagnosis of FASD. A clinical psychologist is also necessary for testing and further clinical assessment.

Steps you can take in preparation:

1. Establish a history of alcohol use during pregnancy
2. Access records where appropriate
3. Establish any anomalies in the pregnancy e.g., premature birth or mother's illness
4. Establish the quality of prenatal care
5. Write a list of your observations and concerns
6. Ask family members and professionals working with the child to write a similar list
7. Prepare a list of questions you may have
8. Discuss with others who have sought or obtained a diagnosis