Impact of nursing instructions on neurodevelopmental state of hypothyroid neonates

ABSTRACT

Congenital hypothyroidism [CH] is the most prevalent endocrine disorder in the neonate. Lack of thyroid hormone during early development is at risk of brain damage and mental retardation. So the aims of this study were to 1. Evaluate the neuro developmental state of the neonate with [CH], 2. Determine the impact of nursing instructions on maternal knowledge and practice regarding [CH], 3. Determine the impact of nursing instructions on neonates' neuro developmental state. This study included 60 neonates, divided into two groups. The studied and control groups, who were collected from Endocrinology Department at Zagazig University Hospital and Shiba Baby Clinic at Zagazig city. Three tools were used to collect the necessary data; a structured interview sheet for both mothers and neonates, assessment sheet and Behavioral Assessment scale for neonates. The results of the present study revealed that the majority of the studied neonates had above normal range body weight and below normal range physiological measure. In addition improper reflexes and poor behavioral responses. More over lack of maternal knowledge and practice in caring for their neonates. On the other hand there were significant improvement in mothers' knowledge and practice after nursing instructions and as a squeal of maternal improvement, the neonates' physical, physiological, neurological and behavioral status also were statistically improved. The study recommended [1] Educational program should be mandatory to nurses who are working at well baby clinics about hypothyroidism [2] Iodine supplementation during pregnancy should be recommended. [3] Cord blood spots should be mandatory collected at delivery room from each neonate for estimation of T3 and T4 values. [4] Mass media must have a role in educating people about [CH]