A nurse is caring for an infant with a diagnosis of bladder exstrophy. To protect the exposed bladder tissue, the nurse plans to:

Choice A reason: Sterile distilled water dressings are not used for bladder exstrophy, as moisture can macerate the exposed bladder mucosa, increasing infection risk and tissue damage. The goal is to keep the tissue moist but protected with non-adherent materials to prevent trauma, making this an incorrect intervention. Choice B reason: Keeping the bladder tissue dry with a dry sterile dressing is inappropriate for bladder exstrophy. Exposed mucosa requires moisture to prevent desiccation and tissue necrosis. Dry dressings can adhere to the tissue, causing trauma upon removal, making this an incorrect choice for protecting the bladder. Choice C reason: Antibiotic-infused gauze may introduce unnecessary chemicals to the delicate bladder mucosa, risking irritation or allergic reactions. While infection prevention is important, non-adherent, sterile, moisture-retaining coverings are preferred to protect the exposed tissue without causing trauma, making this an inappropriate intervention. Choice D reason: Non-adhering plastic wrap, such as sterile silicone or plastic film, is ideal for bladder exstrophy. It maintains a moist environment, prevents tissue desiccation, and avoids adhesion to the delicate mucosa, reducing trauma during dressing changes. This aligns with standard care to protect the exposed bladder until surgical repair.