Introduction: The use of psychoactive substances during pregnancy is a significant public health problem. The number of pregnant women who are addicted to psychoactive substances is growing. The consumption of psychoactive substances negatively affects the health of every individual, primarily pregnant women. Their child is also exposed to the consequences of consuming psychoactive substances because all substances enter the child’s bloodstream via the umbilical cord. Procedures: During the preparation of this paper, data were collected from relevant databases, with language of most of the papers being English, and the criterion for selecting literature was the relevance of the source and the connection with the topic and the nursing profession. Overview: Taking a detailed medical history and status, a physical examination accompanied by appropriate laboratory tests, and questionnaires assist the doctor in detecting the use of psychoactive substances in pregnancy. The prognosis is relatively good, but very individual and varies. The effects of substance abuse on newborns depend on a particular consumption, but mainly include congenital anomalies, medical complications of the newborn, and neurobehavioral changes. Women who use psychoactive substances during pregnancy must feel safe in receiving the medical care by nurse or else they will not come next time. Conclusion: Nurses are trusted health professionals who can have a positive effect if they do not judge women when caring for them. Due to the role nurses play in implementing various programs and services, they should constantly strive to keep up with the areas of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as related issues.