The nurse caring for a toddler who is diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism. Which of the following developmental delays should the nurse recognize as the priority concern if the condition is left untreated?
Delayed cognitive abilities
Delayed social interactions
Delayed language development
Delayed motor skills
The Correct Answer is A
A. Delayed cognitive abilities. Cognitive impairment is the most serious consequence of untreated congenital hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormones are critical for brain development, especially in infancy and early childhood. Severe intellectual disability can result if treatment is delayed, making early diagnosis and levothyroxine therapy essential.
B. Delayed social interactions. While social development may be indirectly affected by hypothyroidism due to lethargy, poor responsiveness, or developmental delays, it is not as critical as cognitive delays, which can lead to permanent intellectual disability.
C. Delayed language development. Language delays are common in hypothyroidism but often stem from underlying cognitive impairment. Early treatment with thyroid hormone replacement can improve language development over time.
D. Delayed motor skills. Hypothyroidism can cause hypotonia (low muscle tone), leading to motor skill delays. However, motor delays are less concerning than irreversible cognitive impairment, which has the most significant long-term impact on the child's quality of life.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Warming blankets can minimize the body changes in deceased children." After death, the body naturally cools (algor mortis), and circulation ceases, leading to skin color changes and rigidity. Warming blankets cannot prevent or reverse these postmortem changes.
B. "A nurse must obtain locks of hair from the deceased child." While some families may request a lock of hair as a keepsake, it is not a mandatory practice. The decision to keep a lock of hair is up to the family, and their consent should be obtained.
C. "Several members of the team will assist you after your child dies." Hospice staff, social workers, grief counselors, and chaplains are available to support the family emotionally and practically after their child's passing. This ensures compassionate care and bereavement support.
D. "A provider will explain the changes you may see in your child's body after they have died." Nurses often take the lead in preparing families for expected physical changes (e.g., cooling, skin color changes, loss of muscle tone). While a provider may also be involved, nurses play a key role in this discussion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Cardiac enzymes. Cardiac enzyme tests are used to assess heart damage, such as in myocardial infarction, and are not typically relevant in evaluating a child's nutritional status.
B. Complete blood count. A CBC is a key diagnostic test for assessing nutritional status, as it can reveal anemia (low hemoglobin and hematocrit), infection (elevated white blood cells), and overall health status. It helps identify deficiencies in iron, folate, and vitamin B12, which are common nutritional concerns in children.
C. Blood coagulation tests. Coagulation tests (e.g., PT, INR, aPTT) are used to assess blood clotting disorders and monitor anticoagulant therapy, but they are not standard tests for nutritional assessment unless there is suspicion of a vitamin K deficiency.
D. Arterial blood gases. ABG tests assess respiratory function and acid-base balance, which are more relevant in critically ill patients. They are not routinely used to evaluate a child's nutritional status.
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