Question

Parents of a newborn with phenylketonuria are anxious to learn about the appropriate treatment for their infant. The nurse should explain that treatment of PKU involves _____ diet.

a) High-protein
b) Low-carbohydrate
c) Low-phenylalanine
d) High-fat

Answer 1

The treatment for phenylketonuria (PKU) involves maintaining a low-phenylalanine diet due to the lack of enzyme activity needed to metabolize this amino acid, which can cause severe neurological symptoms if not managed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Parents of a newborn diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU) must be informed that treatment primarily involves a low-phenylalanine diet. Individuals with PKU lack sufficient activity of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, which is necessary for converting phenylalanine into tyrosine. As a result, they are unable to metabolize phenylalanine properly, leading to toxic levels in the body and potential damage to the central nervous system and brain. Symptoms can be severe and include neurological development delays, hyperactivity, and intellectual disability. To manage PKU and prevent these symptoms, it is essential to follow a diet that is low in phenylalanine, avoiding certain high-protein foods, artificial sweeteners like aspartame, and monitoring intake of certain animal products and starches.