A breastfeeding infant, screened for congenital hypothyroidism, is found to have low levels of thyroxine (T4) and high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Which is the best explanation for this finding?
The TSH is high because of the low production of T4 by the thyroid.
The thyroxine level is low because the TSH level is high.
The thyroid gland does not produce normal levels of thyroxine for several weeks after birth.
High thyroxine levels normally occur in breastfeeding infants.
The Correct Answer is A
In a normal infant, T4 levels increase after birth due to stimulation by TSH from the pituitary gland. In this case, the T4 level is low and the TSH level is high, indicating that the thyroid gland is not producing enough T4 in response to TSH stimulation. This suggests that the infant may have congenital hypothyroidism, which requires prompt treatment to prevent developmental delays and other complications.
The low T4 level is not a direct cause of the high TSH level; rather, the high TSH level is a compensatory mechanism to increase T4 production. It is not normal for a breastfeeding infant to have high thyroxine levels. While the thyroid gland may take a few weeks to reach normal function after birth, the persistent low T4 and high TSH levels in this infant suggest a more serious issue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
To maintain normal growth and development of an infant with a repaired gastroschisis who is receiving parenteral nutrition and continuous enteral feedings, the nurse should include offering a pacifier for non- nutritive sucking in the plan of care. Non-nutritive sucking can help promote the development of the infant's oral motor skills and support normal feeding behaviors. The other options (B, C, and D) are not directly related to maintaining normal growth and development in this situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The boy's reported symptoms may indicate stress or anxiety related to his school experience. By asking the boy to describe a typical day at school, the nurse can gather information about the child's interactions with teachers and peers, academic performance, and any other potential sources of stress. This information can be used to develop an appropriate plan of care that addresses the child's emotional and physical needs.
Comparing vital signs or conducting a neurological assessment may not provide useful information in this case, and counseling the parents to pay more attention to the child is not a recommended intervention without first identifying the underlying cause of the child's symptoms.
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