A case study: urea cycle disorder.

Early identification of symptoms consistent with a urea cycle disorder is crucial to ensure rapid initiation of therapy which, in turn, promotes the best possible prognosis for the newborn. Acute management may include the technological interventions of exchange transfusion, peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis, prevention and treatment of seizures, prevention and/or treatment of increased intracranial pressure, and complex nutritional support with amino acids and/or essential enzymes. Long-term nursing management will also include identifying and providing supports for the family, promoting the integration of the infant into the family, and promoting infant growth and development.