The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The patient tells the nurse she does not want to take medications while she is pregnant. What will the nurse explain to this patient?
a. Hypothyroidism is a normal effect of pregnancy and usually is of no conse-quence.
b. Neuropsychologic deficits in the fetus can occur if the condition is not treated.
c. No danger to the fetus exists until the third trimester.
d. Treatment is required only if the patient is experiencing symptoms.
B
Maternal hypothyroidism can result in permanent neuropsychologic deficits in the child. Hypo-thyroidism is not a normal effect of pregnancy and is a serious condition that can affect both mother and fetus. The greatest danger to the fetus occurs in the first trimester, because the thyro-id 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 de-velopmental problems may occur.
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