The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner is performing a well child
examination on a 2yearold child with a history of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) whose height remains less than the 3rd percentile on a WHO growth chart. What will the nurse practitioner do?

Question

The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner is performing a well child
examination on a 2­year­old child with a history of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) whose height remains less than the 3rd percentile on a WHO growth chart. What will the nurse practitioner do?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) can lead to long-term growth problems. A child with this history whose height remains less than the 3rd percentile on a WHO growth chart should be referred to a pediatric endocrinologist to evaluate for potential underlying endocrine or growth disorders. Growth hormone therapy may be necessary depending on the evaluation. Referring to a dietician for dietary supplementation or reassuring the parent that this is normal for the child would not address the underlying issue and delay potential treatment.

The Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Is Performing a Well