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?

Answer 1

The highest priority nursing intervention during the first 24 hours following the surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula in an infant is ensuring proper airway management and respiratory support.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nursing intervention that takes the highest priority during the first 24 hours following the surgical repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula in an infant is ensuring proper airway management and respiratory support.

After the surgery, the infant may have difficulty breathing due to the effects of anesthesia and the surgical procedure itself. To address this, the nurse should closely monitor the infant's respiratory status, maintain a patent airway through endotracheal intubation if necessary, and support ventilation and oxygenation as needed.

By prioritizing airway management and respiratory support, the nurse can help ensure the infant's adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory complications during the crucial postoperative period.