The nurse is caring for 3-day-old girl with Down syndrome whose mother had no prenatal care. What is the priority nursing diagnosis?A. Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements related to the effects of hypotoniaB. Deficient knowledge related to the presence of a genetic disorderC. Delayed growth and development related to a cognitive impairmentD. Impaired physical mobility related to poor muscle tone
Answer: ARationale: Children with Down syndrome may have difficulty sucking and feeding due to lack of muscle tone and the structure of their mouths and tongues. This can lead to poor nutritional intake and makes this the priority diagnosis. This also uses the strategy that physiologic needs have priority using Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Deficient knowladge due to lack of information about the disorder is a close second in priority, as the mother did not know of her daughter’s
Option A. Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements related to the effects of hypotonia is the priority nursing diagnosis for this scenario.
A baby with Down syndrome has hypotonia or low muscle tone, which affects their ability to feed and swallow. Moreover, delayed feeding or insufficient nutrition can further impede growth, development, and recovery in these babies. Therefore, the immediate priority of the nurse is to ensure proper nutrition and manage feeding problems to avoid complications.
Options B, C, and D although important, are secondary compared to the baby’s immediate need for nutrition and optimal health. The deficient knowledge of the disorder can be addressed in the coming days by giving appropriate guidance to the mother. Delayed growth and development related to cognitive impairment and impaired physical mobility due to poor muscle tone can be addressed later as the baby is stabilized and prepared for the next stage of care.
Hence, the priority nursing diagnosis in this case is A. Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements related to the effects of hypotonia.
More Answers:
Debunking Genetic Disorder Myths: Understanding True Risk FactorsExpert Tips for Nurse Counseling on Genetic Abnormalities: Comprehensive Information and Nondirective Approach
Optimizing Health in Children with Down Syndrome: Essential Measures to Follow