A nurse is reinforcing teaching about home safety with the guardians of a toddler. Which of the following statements by a guardian indicates an understanding of the teaching?

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. Latex gloves: Latex gloves should be avoided, especially in newborns, due to the risk of allergic reactions. Non-latex gloves are the preferred option for any care involving newborns.
B. Soft restraints: Soft restraints are not necessary for the care of a newborn with a myelomeningocele unless there is a specific concern for the infant’s safety. Restraints should not be routinely used unless deemed absolutely necessary.
C. Sterile saline: Sterile saline is essential for cleaning and maintaining the integrity of the myelomeningocele sac. The sac should be kept moist with sterile saline to prevent it from drying out or becoming infected. This is a critical to have at the bedside for proper care.
D. Rectal thermometer: A rectal thermometer should be avoided in infants with a myelomeningocele, especially if the sac involves the lower spinal cord, as it can potentially cause injury to the delicate tissue or result in a risk of infection.