A nurse is providing discharge teaching to the parents of a 6-month-old infant following a surgical procedure to repair hypospadias. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale Applying a dry gauze dressing twice per day is not the standard of care for a hypospadias repair. The surgical site is often left exposed to the air to promote healing and prevent infection, as moist dressings can create an ideal environment for bacterial proliferation. This approach minimizes friction and allows for easy observation of the incision for signs of complication, such as swelling or redness. Choice B rationale Hourly measurements of urinary output are excessive and not typically required for a stable postoperative hypospadias repair patient. While monitoring output is important, it can usually be done less frequently. The focus is on ensuring a steady stream of urine, which indicates patency of the urinary tract and stent, but continuous hourly monitoring is not standard practice and can be disruptive to the infant's rest and recovery. Choice C rationale Offering a 6-month-old infant 12 to 18 ounces of fruit juice daily is not appropriate. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding fruit juice for infants under 1 year of age. This is because juice can displace more nutritious breast milk or formula and may contribute to dental caries and excessive weight gain due to its high sugar content and lack of fiber. Choice D rationale Avoiding a tub bath until the stent is removed is a crucial instruction to prevent infection and protect the surgical site. Submerging the incision in water before it has healed can introduce bacteria from the water into the wound. This can lead to serious infections and complications, such as wound dehiscence. Sponge baths are a safer alternative to maintain hygiene during this period.