The nurse is caring for a 2-month-old with a cleft palate. The child will undergo corrective surgery at age 3 months. The mother would like to continue breastfeeding the baby after surgery and wonders if it is possible. How should the nurse respond?

A. "There is a good chance that you will be able to breastfeed almost immediately": Immediately after cleft palate repair, the surgical site is delicate, and direct breastfeeding can place stress on the suture line, increasing the risk of bleeding or wound dehiscence, making early feeding unsafe. B. "Breastfeeding is likely to be possible, but check with the surgeon": While consulting the surgeon is important, this response does not provide clear guidance regarding the timing of safe feeding and may leave the parent uncertain about postoperative care. C. "After the suture line heals, breastfeeding can resume": Once the cleft palate repair has sufficiently healed, usually within 1–2 weeks depending on the surgeon’s instructions, breastfeeding can typically be resumed. This approach protects the integrity of the surgical site while supporting the continuation of maternal-infant bonding and nutrition. D. "We will have to wait and see what happens after the surgery": This response is vague and does not offer concrete guidance or timelines, potentially increasing parental anxiety. Clear postoperative feeding instructions help ensure both wound safety and adequate nutrition.