Question

A 2 month-old infant has both a cleft lip and palate which will be repaired in stages. In the immediate postoperative period for a cleft lip repair, which nursing approach should be the priority?

A) Remove protective arm devices one at a time for short periods with supervision
B) Initiate by mouth feedings when alert, with the return of the gag reflex
C) Introduce to the parents how to cleanse the suture line with the prescribed protocol
D) Position the infant on the back after feedings throughout the day

Answer 1

The priority nursing approach in the immediate postoperative period for a cleft lip repair is to initiate by mouth feedings when alert, with the return of the gag reflex.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the immediate postoperative period for a cleft lip repair, the priority nursing approach should be Initiate by mouth feedings when alert, with the return of the gag reflex. This is because initiating feeding when the infant is alert and the gag reflex has returned is an important step in ensuring successful recovery and nutrition for the baby. Other approaches, such as removing protective arm devices, introducing parents to suture line cleansing, and positioning the infant on the back after feedings, are also important but not the priority immediately after cleft lip repair.