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?

A. Speak to the healthcare provider about instituting physical therapy: Physical therapy is not necessary in the immediate period before surgery for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. B. Ensure placement of the nasogastric tube with an abdominal x-ray: While confirming tube placement is important, it is not a key action for maintaining growth and development. C. Use sterile water for gastric lavage: This is not relevant to the care of a child with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in the pre-surgical period. D. Offer a pacifier for nonnutritive sucking: Non-nutritive sucking provides comfort and can promote normal development in infants, even in the absence of feeding.