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?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

Prior to Discharging an Infant with Congenital Hypothyroidism to Home