Question

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to the parents of a 6-month-old infant who is postoperative following hypospadias repair with a stent placement. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Remove the stent during diaper changes.
B. Encourage frequent diaper changes to prevent infection.
C. Limit fluid intake to reduce stent irritation.
D. Avoid applying any ointments or creams to the stent site.

Answer 1

The nurse should encourage frequent diaper changes to prevent infection in a 6-month-old infant who had hypospadias repair with a stent placement. Removing the stent during diaper changes is not necessary. Limiting fluid intake and avoiding ointments or creams are not essential unless advised by the surgeon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include the instruction to encourage frequent diaper changes to prevent infection. Providing this instruction is crucial in postoperative care, as it helps minimize the risk of contamination and infection in the stent site. Changing the diaper frequently ensures that the area remains clean and dry, reducing the chances of bacteria growth.

Removing the stent during diaper changes (option A) is not necessary, as the stent should be left in place as per the surgeon's instructions for proper healing of the surgical site. Option C, limiting fluid intake to reduce stent irritation, is not essential unless specifically advised by the surgeon. Option D, avoiding applying any ointments or creams to the stent site, is generally recommended to prevent interference with healing.