A neonate is born with bilateral mild talipes equinovarus (clubfoot). When the parents ask the nurse how this will be corrected, the nurse should give which explanation?

Choice A reason:

Weight gain is not a primary concern in the management of hypothyroidism in infancy. While hypothyroidism can lead to weight gain due to a slower metabolism, the more critical issue is the impact on brain development. Early and adequate treatment of hypothyroidism is essential to prevent intellectual disabilities and ensure normal neurocognitive outcomes.

Choice B Reason:

Rapid gut motility and diarrhea are not typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. In fact, hypothyroidism is more commonly associated with constipation due to a slower metabolism. Therefore, this choice is not relevant to the prompt management of hypothyroidism in infancy.

Choice C Reason:

Infancy is indeed a critical period for brain development. Untreated hypothyroidism during this time can lead to severe intellectual disabilities and developmental delays. Early diagnosis and treatment with thyroid hormone replacement are crucial to ensure normal brain development and cognitive function.

Choice D Reason:

Hyperactivity and irritability are not common symptoms of hypothyroidism. In fact, hypothyroidism often leads to lethargy and decreased activity levels. Therefore, this choice is not relevant to the prompt management of hypothyroidism in infancy.

The correct answer is d. Frequent serial casting is tried first

Choice A reason:

Infants do not outgrow clubfoot on their own. Without treatment, the condition can lead to significant disability and difficulty walking. Early intervention is crucial to correct the deformity and ensure proper foot function.

Choice B Reason:

Surgical intervention is not the first line of treatment for mild cases of clubfoot. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases or when nonsurgical methods, such as casting, have failed. The goal is to correct the foot’s position using less invasive methods whenever possible.

Choice C Reason:

Traction with foot manipulation is not a standard treatment for clubfoot. The primary nonsurgical treatment involves the Ponseti method, which includes gentle manipulation and serial casting to gradually correct the foot’s position.

Choice D Reason:

Frequent serial casting, known as the Ponseti method, is the first line of treatment for clubfoot. This method involves weekly manipulation and casting of the foot to gradually move it into the correct position. It is highly effective and is the preferred initial treatment for most cases of clubfoot.