Which is an important nursing consideration in the care of the newborn with PKU?
A) Suggest ways to make formula more palatable.
B) Teach proper administration of phenylalanine hydroxylase.
C) Encourage the breastfeeding mother to adhere to a low-phenylalanine diet.
D) Give reassurance that dietary restrictions are a temporary inconvenience.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To achieve optimal metabolic control, a restricted phenylalanine diet will probably be required for virtually all individuals with classic PKU throughout life. The nurse and nutritionist should work with families to make the formula more palatable for the newborn. Phenylalanine hydroxylase is not effective because it cannot act within the cell where phenylalanine is metabolized. Partial breastfeeding may be possible, but only with extremely careful monitoring of the newborn's blood levels. According to the latest research, lifelong dietary restriction may be necessary.

Which Is an Important Nursing Consideration in the Care of the Newborn