Question

A nurse is assigned to assist in caring for a newborn with a colostomy that was created during surgical intervention for imperforate anus. When the newborn returns from surgery, the nurse checks the stoma and notes that it is red and edematous. Which of the following is the appropriate nursing intervention?

a) Apply a tight dressing to control swelling
b) Clean the stoma with hydrogen peroxide
c) Notify the surgeon about the findings
d) Document the findings as a normal postoperative response

Answer 1

Notify the surgeon about the red and edematous stoma in the newborn with a colostomy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate nursing intervention for a red and edematous stoma in a newborn with a colostomy is to notify the surgeon about the findings. The redness and swelling may indicate an infection or other complications that require medical attention. It is important to involve the surgeon and follow their guidance in such cases to ensure the appropriate care for the newborn.