Question

The nurse is assisting with the care of an infant following surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula. Which nursing intervention takes the highest priority during the first 24 hours following the surgical repair?

a) Monitor for excessive secretions.
b) Elevating the head of the bed
c) Keeping the infant on the side-lying position
d) Maintaining the patency of the newly created esophagus

Answer 1

d) Maintaining the patency of the newly created esophagus

The highest priority nursing intervention following surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula in an infant is maintaining the patency of the newly created esophagus to ensure a proper airway and reduce complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse assisting with the care of an infant following surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula should prioritize maintaining the patency of the newly created esophagus. This is essential to ensure that the infant can maintain a proper airway and decrease the risk of aspiration and respiratory complications. Although other interventions such as monitoring for excessive secretions, elevating the head of the bed, and keeping the infant in a side-lying position are important, the patency of the esophagus is critical for the immediate postoperative period.