A nurse is caring for an infant who just had a circumcision. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Avoid oral sucrose: Oral sucrose is actually an effective nonpharmacologic pain management strategy for infants. It should not be avoided; small amounts can help reduce procedural pain during circumcision. B. Provide IV morphine: IV morphine is not routinely indicated for circumcision in healthy term infants due to the risk of respiratory depression and because less invasive pain control methods are effective. C. Swaddle the infant: Swaddling provides comfort and a sense of security, reducing pain and distress after circumcision. It is a safe, nonpharmacologic intervention that helps calm the infant during recovery. D. Apply petroleum daily: Petroleum jelly is typically applied to the circumcision site to prevent the diaper from sticking and protect the healing tissue. However, it is usually applied with each diaper change, not just once daily, to ensure proper care and healing.