Final answer:
An infant pre-op for an intact myelomeningocele sac should be placed in a prone position. This protects the sac and prepares the infant for surgery to limit neurological damage and complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
When caring for an infant who is pre-op for the treatment of an intact myelomeningocele sac, the nurse should place the infant in the prone position. The prone position means the infant will be lying face-down. This position helps to protect the myelomeningocele sac from damage and minimizes the risk of infection before surgery. Surgical intervention for myelomeningocele is critical as it can close the opening, remove the cyst, and control or limit further neurological damage. While neurological damage may persist, symptoms can often be managed, and complications addressed to allow a better quality of life.