Question

A nurse is providing anticipatory guidance to a client who has phenylketonuria (PKU) and is planning a pregnancy. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the discussion?

Answer 1

To a client who has phenylketonuria (PKU) and is planning a pregnancy the following information should the nurse include in the discussion;

Women with PKU should keep their blood phenylalanine levels between 2-6 mg/dL. Hence the diet must be extremely strict. The amount of phenylalanine and special formula needed varies from individual to individual. Therefore a nutritional counseling is very important if pregnancy is considered. In addition, the pregnant woman with PKU must ensure she is gaining the proper amount of weight during pregnancy.

A pregnant woman with PKU must eat for two, gaining weight like any other pregnant mother to be. For gaining the proper amount of weight during pregnancy, a pregnant mother must eat foods high in calories while low in protein. Weight gain is often promoted with sugars and fats because of the diet limitations. Cookies, pizzas, and baked goods can also provide extra calories which are special low protein products.

Sticking to a mixture of amino acids without phenylalanine

The expecting mother needs to have her vitamin and mineral levels checked before conception so that any deficiencies can be rectified beforehand and, re-emergence during pregnancy prevented through the use of supplements.