The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The patient is reluctant to take the prescribed therapy. The nurse should educate this patient that
a. neuropsychologic deficits in the fetus may result if the condition is not treated.
b. no danger to the fetus exists until the third trimester, therefore the patient has time to make the decision.
c. treatment is required only if the mother is experiencing symptoms.
d. hypothyroidism is a normal effect of pregnancy and usually is of no consequence.
ANS: A
Maternal hypothyroidism can result in permanent neuropsychologic deficits in the child.
The greatest danger to the fetus occurs in the first trimester, because the fetus is entirely dependent on the mother; the thyroid does not fully develop until the second trimester. Early identification is essential.
Symptoms often are vague. Treatment should begin as soon as possible, or mental retardation and other developmental problems may occur.
Hypothyroidism is not a normal effect of pregnancy and is a serious condition that can affect both mother and fetus.
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