The nurse is caring for a neonate with a suspected tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Nursing care should include which of the following?

The best response for the nurse to give a parent regarding contacting the physician about an
infant with diarrhea is option B. In infants, dehydration can occur quickly, and a decrease in
urine output is an important indicator of fluid imbalance. Not having a wet diaper for 6 hours
can be a sign of inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss, which warrants contacting the
paediatrician for further assessment and guidance.
"Call the doctor immediately if the infant has a temperature greater than 100° F,"in (option
A) is incorrect because it is not directly related to the concern of diarrhea. While a high fever
can be a sign of an underlying infection, it is not the primary concern in this case.
"The paediatrician should be contacted if the infant has two loose stools in an 8-hour
period,” in (option B) is incorrect because it may not necessarily require immediate medical
attention. While increased frequency of stools can be concerning, the absence of urine output
is a more critical indicator of dehydration.
"Notify the paediatrician if the infant naps more than 2 hours," in (option D) is incorrect
because it is unrelated to the concern of diarrhea and dehydration.

When caring for a neonate with a suspected tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), nursing care should include elevating the head but giving nothing by mouth. Tracheoesophageal fistula is a condition where an abnormal connection exists between the trachea and oesophagus, leading to the passage of air and secretions between these structures. Feeding the infant orally can result in aspiration of feedings into the lungs, which can cause respiratory distress and complications. Therefore, it is important to keep the neonate in an upright position to reduce the risk of aspiration until a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan are established.

elevating the head for feedings in (option B), is not appropriate in this case as oral feedings should be avoided until the tracheoesophageal fistula is addressed.

avoiding suction unless the infant is cyanotic in (option C), is not correct. Suctioning may be necessary in neonates with suspected tracheoesophageal fistula to clear secretions and maintain a patent airway.

feeding glucose water only in (option D), is not an appropriate intervention for a neonate with a suspected tracheoesophageal fistula. In this situation, all oral feedings should be withheld until further evaluation and management.