The parents of a child with acid-base imbalance ask the nurse about mechanisms that regulate acid-base balance. Which statement by the nurse accurately explains the mechanisms regulating acid-base balance in children?

Hypothyroidismreferstoanunderactivethyroid glandthatdoesnotproduceenoughthyroidhormones. In newborns, this condition is known as congenital hypothyroidism. Thesymptoms mentioned—mottled skin, a large fontanel (soft spot on the baby's head), a largetongue,lethargy, anddifficultyfeeding—arecharacteristic ofhypothyroidism inneonates.

Mottledskincanoccur duetodecreasedcirculationandlow bodytemperatureassociatedwith hypothyroidism. A large fontanel and tongue are common physical features seen ininfants with hypothyroidism. Lethargy and poor feeding are also typical signs of thiscondition.

Hypoglycaemia in (option A) is incorrect because it refers to low blood sugar levels andusuallypresentswithdifferent symptomssuchas jitteriness,tremors,and sweating.

Hypocalcaemia in (option C) is incorrect because it is low calcium levels and can manifestwithsymptoms like muscle cramps, twitching,and seizures.

Phenylketonuria (PKU) in (option D) it is incorrect because it is a metabolic disordercharacterized by the inability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, and it typicallypresentswith differentsymptoms such asintellectual disabilityandamustydoorto theskin.

Therefore, based on the symptoms described, hypothyroidism (B) is the most likely disorderinthisneonate. Itisimportanttoconsultahealthcareprofessionalforaproperdiagnosisandappropriatetreatment.

The regulation of acid-base balance in the body involves multiple systems working together. The respiratory system, renal system, and chemical-buffering systems play key roles in maintaining the balance of acids and bases in the body.

The respiratory system helps regulate acid-base balance through the control of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood. By adjusting the rate and depth of breathing, the respiratory system can increase or decrease the elimination of CO2, which affects the pH of the blood.

The renal system (kidneys) plays a crucial role in regulating acid-base balance by controlling the excretion and reabsorption of hydrogen ions (H+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) in the urine. The kidneys can excrete excess acids or bases to help maintain the body's pH within a normal range.

The chemical-buffering systems involve various chemical compounds in the body that can absorb or release hydrogen ions to help maintain pH balance. Examples of chemical buffers include bicarbonate ions (HCO3-), phosphate ions (HPO4-), and proteins.

the cardiovascular and integumentary systemin (option A) is incorrect because they, are not primarily responsible for regulating acid-base balance in the body.