Free NCLEX RN Questions on Health Promotion and Maintenance Nursing Practice Question
The nurse is teaching health education classes to a group of expectant parents, and the topic is preventing cognitive impairment caused by congenital hypothyroidism. What should the nurse tell the parents is the most effective means of promoting early intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Congenital hypothyroidism is a common preventable cause of cognitive impairment. Neonatal screening is the only means of early diagnosis followed by intervention and the subsequent prevention of cognitive impairment. Newborn infants are screened for congenital hypothyroidism before discharge from the newborn nursery and before 7 days of life. Treatment is begun immediately, if necessary. Vitamin intake and adequate protein will not specifically prevent this disorder. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy needs to be restricted rather than just limited.