Question

A nurse is caring for an infant who has been diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism. The nurse is reviewing the results of the laboratory tests and would expect to note which of the following?

1.) A normal T4 level
2.) An elevated T4 level
3.) An elevated TSH level
4.) A decreased TSH level

Answer 1

In the case of primary hypothyroidism, a nurse should expect to note an elevated TSH level in an infant's lab test results. This elevation is due to the underactivity of the thyroid gland, which leads to insufficient thyroid hormone production.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse caring for an infant diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism should expect to note an elevated TSH level in the laboratory tests. Primary hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is underactive, leading to insufficient production of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The pituitary gland attempts to compensate for low levels of these hormones by producing more thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which normally stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T3 and T4.

Without sufficient production of thyroid hormones, one might notice symptoms such as abnormal weight gain, tiredness, and cold intolerance. Most cases of hypothyroidism can be managed with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This treatment is critical, especially for infants and pregnant women, as insufficient thyroid hormones during development can lead to serious lifelong cognitive impairments.