Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

After cleft lip surgery for an 8-week-old infant, what is the most crucial nursing intervention?

1. A. Lay the baby on his stomach to prevent aspiration

2. B. Provide adequate oral nutrition

3. C. Decrease stress on the suture line

4. D. Use a hard nipple and pacifier to teach sucking

The correct answer is: C. Decrease stress on the suture line

The most crucial nursing intervention after cleft lip surgery for an infant is to decrease stress on the suture line. This is vital because the surgical site is delicate, and reducing any stress or tension on the sutures helps to ensure proper healing and minimizes the risk of complications, such as dehiscence (opening of the surgical wound). Reducing stress on the suture line involves positioning the infant appropriately (usually on their back or side) and using devices like elbow immobilizers if necessary to prevent the baby from reaching the surgical site. Careful monitoring for any signs of irritation or complication at the suture line is also critical. While adequate oral nutrition is important, its priority is secondary to protecting the surgical site immediately post-operatively. Ensuring the infant receives sufficient nutrition can typically be managed by other methods as the healing progresses. Furthermore, using a hard nipple and pacifier may pose a risk to the suture line by putting pressure on it, which can lead to complications. Likewise, laying the baby on their stomach is generally discouraged after surgery due to the risk of aspiration and does not support the protection of the surgical site.