Question

A nurse is assigned to care for a 2-year-old child who has been admitted to the hospital for surgical correction of cryptorchidism. The highest priority in the postoperative plan of care for this child is to:

a) Monitor for signs of infection.

b) Administer prescribed pain medication.

c) Encourage ambulation.

d) Apply a scrotal support.

Answer 1

The highest postoperative care priority for a child after cryptorchidism surgery is to monitor for signs of infection, in coordination with a multidisciplinary surgical team.

Step-by-step explanation:

The highest priority in the postoperative plan of care for a 2-year-old child who has undergone surgical correction of cryptorchidism is to monitor for signs of infection. This is critical because following surgery, the risk of infection is heightened, and immediate action is necessary to prevent complications. The surgical team, including the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional, should review the patient's recovery concerns, ensuring sterility and the proper use of antibiotics as prophylaxis. Postoperative care also involves the administration of prescribed pain medication and the support of the scrotum. Ambulation is encouraged as appropriate for age and surgical recovery, but not immediately prioritized over monitoring for infection and managing pain.