A nurse is assisting with the care of a child who is receiving palliative care. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Gently cleanse the surgical site with sterile gauze: direct vigorous cleansing of the palate surgical site with gauze is generally avoided to prevent disruption of sutures. Oral rinses or specific gentle cleaning methods may be prescribed, but direct gauze wiping is usually not recommended.
B. Offer a pacifier with glucose syrup: acifiers and any sucking on objects (including straws, spoons, or toys) are typically contraindicated after cleft palate repair because the sucking motion puts stress on the suture line and can disrupt healing.
C. Apply elbow immobilizers to both arms: Elbow immobilizers prevent the infant from bending their elbows and bringing their hands to their mouth or face, which could disrupt the surgical sutures, cause trauma, or introduce infection to the delicate palate repair.
D. Place the infant in a supine position: A semi-upright position is usually preferred to reduce pressure on the surgical site and prevent aspiration, rather than placing the infant flat on their back.

A. "There is nothing we can do to minimize overgrowth of their gum tissue.": Incorrect. Gingival hyperplasia is a known side effect of phenytoin, but good oral hygiene and regular dental care can help minimize its severity.
B. "They will need to take 400 IU of vitamin E while on this medication.": Incorrect. Routine vitamin E supplementation is not standard or necessary with phenytoin unless specifically indicated by a provider.
C. "We will need to periodically have their blood drawn to check phenytoin levels.": Correct. Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic index, so serum drug levels must be monitored regularly to avoid toxicity or subtherapeutic dosing.
D. "This medication may cause their eyes to, at times, move quickly back and forth.": Correct. Nystagmus is a known dose-related side effect of phenytoin, especially at higher levels.
E. "This drug won't decrease the effectiveness of their oral contraceptive medication.": Incorrect. Phenytoin is a hepatic enzyme inducer and can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, so alternate or additional contraceptive methods should be recommended.