Author Question: Prior to discharging an infant with congenital hypothyroidism to home with the parents, what should ... (Read 174 times)

stevenposner · **on:** Jun 27, 2018

Prior to discharging an infant with congenital hypothyroidism to home with the parents, what should the nurse emphasize regarding the care that this child will need going forward?

A) Vitamin K administration until school age
B) Administration of levothyroxine indefinitely
C) An increased intake of calcium beginning immediately
D) Administration of vitamin C until after growth is complete

Question 2

The nurse is preparing teaching materials for a family whose child is prescribed somatropin (Humatrope) for a growth hormone deficiency. What should the nurse instruct the parents about the administration of this medication?

A) This medication must be given by injection.
B) This medication must be given in the morning before school.
C) Hip or knee pain is an expected adverse effect of this medication.
D) This medication does not interact with any other types of medication.

hramirez205 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 27, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Feedback:
The treatment for hypothyroidism is oral administration of synthetic thyroid hormone or sodium levothyroxine. A small dose is given at first, and then the dose is gradually increased to therapeutic levels. The child needs to continue taking the synthetic thyroid hormone indefinitely to supplement that which the thyroid does not make. Vitamin K is not needed. Supplemental vitamin D, and not calcium, may be given to prevent the development of rickets when rapid bone growth begins. Supplemental vitamin C is not indicated for this disorder.

Answer to Question 2

A
Feedback:
Somatropin (Humatrope) is administered by injection. It is best given at hour of sleep because that is when growth hormone is released. Hip or knee pain could indicate a slipped capital epiphysis and should be reported to the health care provider. The nurse should urge the parents to inform all health care providers that the child is receiving this medication to avoid medication interactions.