A child is diagnosed with trisomy 21. The parents ask what caused this genetic disorder. What is the most important thing for the nurse to consider when preparing to answer this question?

Question

1. Pesticide exposure is thought to contribute to trisomy 21.
2. The primary risk factor for this syndrome is advanced maternal age.
3. Maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy causes trisomy 21.
4. Insufficient protein intake by the mother is implicated in the development of trisomy 21.

Answer 1

2
Rationale 1: Pesticide exposure is not the primary cause of trisomy 21.
Rationale 2: Advanced maternal age is the primary risk factor for trisomy 21.
Rationale 3: Maternal alcohol consumption is a risk for fetal alcohol syndrome. It is not the primary risk factor for trisomy 21.
Rationale 4: Insufficient protein intake is not the primary risk factor for trisomy 21.