A nurse is caring for a client who wants to know if it is possible to have a vaginal birth after a cesarean birth (VBAC). Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A reason:

This statement is incorrect because special lights are used to treat jaundice, not PKU. Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a waste product that is normally removed by the liver. Special lights help break down bilirubin so that it can be excreted from the body.

Choice B reason:

This statement is correct because PKU is a genetic disorder that can be corrected by diet. PKU is caused by a lack of an enzyme that breaks down phenylalanine, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods. Phenylalanine can build up in the blood and cause brain damage and other health problems if not treated. A diet that is low in phenylalanine and high in a special formula can prevent these complications.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct because sometimes the test is repeated in the doctor's office at the 2-week check-up. The PKU test is done one to three days after birth, but it may not be accurate if the baby has not had enough protein in their diet before the test. A repeat test may be needed to confirm or rule out PKU.

Choice D reason:

This statement is incorrect because the baby must take formula or breast milk after the test is done, not before. The test measures the level of phenylalanine in the blood, which will be higher if the baby has eaten protein-rich foods. The test should be done after the baby has fasted for at least two hours.

Choice A reason:

Slow growth is a common symptom of thalassemia, especially in children. It is caused by the reduced production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, which leads to anemia and poor oxygen delivery to the tissues. Slow growth can also affect the development of facial bones and cause deformities.

Choice B reason:

Fatigue is another common symptom of thalassemia, also related to anemia and low oxygen levels in the body. People with thalassemia may feel tired, weak, and short of breath even after mild physical activity. Fatigue can also affect their mood, concentration, and quality of life.

Choice C reason:

Hematoma is not a typical symptom of thalassemia. Hematoma is a collection of blood under the skin or in an organ, usually caused by trauma, injury, or bleeding disorders. People with thalassemia may have a higher risk of bleeding due to low platelet counts or frequent blood transfusions, but this does not necessarily result in hematoma.

Choice D reason:

Pruritus is not a typical symptom of thalassemia. Pruritus is a sensation of itching that can affect any part of the body. It can have many causes, such as dry skin, allergies, infections, or liver problems. People with thalassemia may experience pruritus as a side effect of iron overload or iron chelation therapy, but it is not a direct consequence of the condition.

Choice E reason:

Ecchymoses are not typical symptoms of thalassemia. Ecchymoses are large bruises that appear on the skin due to bleeding under the surface. They can be caused by trauma, injury, or bleeding disorders. People with thalassemia may have a higher risk of bleeding due to low platelet counts or frequent blood transfusions, but this does not necessarily result in ecchymoses.