Pediatric HESI 2023 Related

Review Pediatric HESI 2023 related questions and content

A nurse is caring for an infant with phenylketonuria (PKU). What diet should the nurse anticipate will be ordered by the healthcare provider?

  • A. Fat-free
  • B. Protein-enriched
  • C. Phenylalanine-free
  • D. Low-phenylalanine
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A low-phenylalanine diet is necessary for infants with PKU because it helps prevent the accumulation of phenylalanine, which can result in brain damage. Fat-free (Choice A) and protein-enriched (Choice B) diets are not specifically indicated for PKU. While phenylalanine-free (Choice C) may seem logical, complete elimination of phenylalanine is not practical or safe as it is an essential amino acid. Therefore, the correct choice is a low-phenylalanine diet, which restricts phenylalanine intake to a safe level.