A nurse is reinforcing teaching about phenylketonuria (PKU) testing with the parent of a newborn. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates a need for further teaching?
"My baby will be placed under special lights if the test is elevated.".
"My baby must take formula or breast milk before the test is done.".
"This test checks for a genetic disorder that can be corrected by diet.".
"Sometimes the test is repeated in the doctor's office at the 2-week check-up.".
The Correct Answer is A
"My baby will be placed under special lights if the test is elevated.”.
Choice A rationale:

This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the body. If the PKU test is elevated, it means that the baby has high levels of phenylalanine, and immediate dietary intervention is required. The parent's statement about special lights suggests a confusion with jaundice treatment, which is not related to PKU.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is accurate. Before the PKU test is done, the baby needs to consume formula or breast milk to ensure accurate test results.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is also accurate. PKU is a genetic disorder that can be managed with a special diet low in phenylalanine. By adhering to the prescribed diet, the harmful effects of PKU can be minimized.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is accurate. It is common for the PKU test to be repeated at the 2-week check- up to confirm the initial results and ensure early detection and management of PKU if present.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should first report the client's respiratory status to the primary health care.
Choice A rationale:
Reporting the client's laboratory results to the primary health care is important, but in a newborn with respiratory distress and acidosis, addressing the respiratory status takes precedence. The priority is to ensure the newborn's respiratory stability and adequate oxygenation.
Choice B rationale:
Reporting the client's respiratory status to the primary health care is the correct action. A newborn with respiratory distress syndrome and respiratory acidosis requires immediate attention. The primary health care provider needs to be informed promptly to make decisions about further interventions and management.
Choice C rationale:
Reporting the client's brachial pulses to the primary health care is essential, but it is not the priority in this situation. The primary concern is the newborn's respiratory distress and acidosis, which needs to be addressed first.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Activating respiratory arrest procedures is not necessary in this situation. The newborn's respiratory rate, although slightly elevated, does not indicate respiratory arrest. Instead, such procedures are reserved for situations where the newborn has stopped breathing or is in acute respiratory distress.
Choice B rationale:
Requesting an order for supplemental oxygen may be premature. The newborn's respiration rate of 44/min, although shallow with periods of apnea, is still within the normal range for a newborn. Providing supplemental oxygen should be considered when the newborn is showing signs of significant respiratory distress or if oxygen saturation levels are low.
Choice C rationale:
The most appropriate action in this scenario is to continue routine monitoring of the newborn's respiratory rate and overall condition. Newborns often exhibit irregular breathing patterns, including periods of apnea, especially in the first few hours after birth. As long as the newborn's color, heart rate, and overall appearance are stable, routine monitoring is appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
There is no need to report the observation to the charge nurse immediately, as the newborn's respiratory rate and pattern fall within the expected range for a 12-hour-old newborn.
Reporting should be considered when there are significant deviations from the norm or if the newborn's condition deteriorates.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.