Question

A pediatric nurse educator provides a teaching session to the nursing staff regarding phenylketonuria. Which statement should the nurse educator include in the session?

a. All 50 states require routine screening of all newborn infants for phenylketonuria.
b. Phenylketonuria is caused by a viral infection.
c. Phenylketonuria is an autosomal dominant disorder.
d. Phenylketonuria screening is done only if there is a family history.

Answer 1

All newborn infants in the United States and Canada are screened for phenylketonuria (PKU) to allow for early intervention and a modified diet. Dietary restrictions are necessary for individuals with PKU to prevent symptoms and damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a teaching session on phenylketonuria (PKU), a pediatric nurse educator should include the statement that routine screening for PKU is required for all newborn infants in the United States and Canada. This ensures that the condition can be identified early and a modified diet can be initiated to prevent severe symptoms and damage. It is important for infants with PKU to closely follow a strict diet that is low in phenylalanine, which can be found in certain foods and artificial sweeteners.