HESI Pediatrics Exam Related

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A breastfeeding infant, screened for congenital hypothyroidism, is found to have low levels of thyroxine (T4) and high levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). What is the best explanation for this finding?

  • A. The thyroxine level is low because the TSH level is high.
  • B. High thyroxine levels normally occur in breastfeeding infants.
  • C. The thyroid gland does not produce normal levels of thyroxine for several weeks after birth.
  • D. The TSH is high because of the low production of T4 by the thyroid.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: High TSH results from low T4 production, indicating congenital hypothyroidism.