Thomas, an 8-year-old boy, was referred to the paediatric endocrinology clinic for evaluation of his short stature. He had been healthy and developmentally normal until 3 years ago. Since that time,...

Thomas, an 8-year-old boy, was referred to the paediatric endocrinology clinic for evaluation of his short stature. He had been healthy and developmentally normal until 3 years ago. Since that time, his growth has been extremely slow and almost imperceptible. On his initial exam, Thomas’s weight and height were 17 kg (37.4 lb) and 108 cm (42.5 in.), respectively. His height standard deviation score was –4.0 with a body mass index of 14.6. The remainder of his physical examination was normal. When the paediatrician reviewed the results of hormonal assay tests with Thomas’s parents, everyone was relieved to find out that, although there is a problem, it is not due to a tumor or other life-threatening disorder. Thomas has a congenital deficiency in GH, and the paediatrician begins to discuss replacement therapy with the parents. They agree that Thomas should have this therapy and want to start it as soon as possible. Somatropin (Huma trope) has been ordered. As the nurse working with Thomas and his family, address each of the following questions.

1. What teaching will you need to provide to Thomas’s parents regarding drug therapy for his disorder?

2. Thomas’s father states, “I hope my health insurance will cover this medication.” What would you say in response to this comment?

3. The parents ask about the adverse effects that might occur with this therapy. How would you respond?