A 2-month-old infant with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is receiving parenteral fluids for rehydration and decompression of the stomach while waiting for surgical repair. To maintain normal growth and development of the child during this period, which action should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Ensure placement of the nasogastric tube with an abdominal x-ray: Confirming NG tube placement is necessary for safety and gastric decompression but does not directly promote growth and developmental needs in a 2-month-old infant. B. Use sterile water for gastric lavage: Gastric lavage with sterile water may be needed for certain clinical reasons, but it does not contribute to emotional comfort or developmental stimulation during the preoperative period. C. Offer a pacifier for nonnutritive sucking: Offering a pacifier supports normal infant developmental needs for oral stimulation and soothing, helping to maintain comfort and fostering early developmental milestones while the infant is unable to feed orally. D. Speak to the healthcare provider about instituting physical therapy: Physical therapy is not typically necessary for an otherwise normally developing 2-month-old infant awaiting surgery, especially when the main issue involves temporary interruption of feeding.