Which nursing intervention would be a priority during the care of a 2-month-old after surgery?
A. Minimize stimuli for the infant.
B. Restrain all extremities.
C. Encourage stroking of the infant.
D. Demonstrate to the mother how she can assist with her infant’s care.
Correct Answer: C. Encourage stroking of the infant.
Tactile stimulation is imperative for an infant’s normal emotional development. After the trauma of surgery, sensory deprivation can cause failure to thrive. Most babies with FTT do not have a specific underlying disease or medical condition to account for their growth failure. This is referred to as Non-organic FTT. Up to 80% of all children with FTT have Non-organic type FTT. Non-organic FTT most commonly occurs when there is inadequate food intake or there is a lack of environmental stimuli.
Option A: Provide sensory stimulation. Attempt to cuddle the child and talk to him or her in a warm, soothing tone and allow for play activities appropriate for the child’s age. Feed the child slowly and carefully in a quiet environment; during feeding, the child might be closely snuggled and gently rocked; it may be necessary to feed the child every 2 to 3 hours initially.
Option B: Do not restrain the child. Burp the child frequently during and at the end of each feeding, and then place him or her on the side with the head slightly elevated or held in a chest-to-chest position.
Option D: If a family caregiver is present, encourage him or her to become involved in the child’s feedings. While caring for the child, point out to the caregiver the child’s development and responsiveness, noting and praising any positive parenting behaviors the caregiver displays.