The nurse is caring for an infant following the surgical repair of an atrial septal defect. Which nursing interventions are appropriate for this infant? (Select All that Apply.)

Choice A rationale Maintaining a thermoneutral environment is vital for an infant post-surgery to minimize metabolic demands and oxygen consumption. Infants have a larger surface area to body mass ratio and immature thermoregulation, making them susceptible to heat loss, which can increase stress on their cardiovascular and respiratory systems during recovery. Choice B rationale Accurately measuring intake and output is crucial for monitoring fluid balance and renal perfusion, especially in a post-surgical infant. Imbalances can lead to fluid overload, impacting cardiac function, or dehydration, affecting organ perfusion. Precise monitoring allows for timely interventions to maintain hemodynamic stability. Choice C rationale Incentive spirometer 10 times every hour is not appropriate for an infant. Incentive spirometers are used for older children and adults who can follow instructions to perform deep breathing exercises. Infants require different pulmonary interventions like chest physiotherapy or suctioning, not an incentive spirometry. Choice D rationale Encouraging periods of bonding between the infant and parents is essential for the infant's emotional and psychological well-being. Post-surgical hospitalization can be stressful for both, and bonding promotes attachment, reduces parental anxiety, and provides a sense of security and comfort for the recovering infant. Choice E rationale Providing for several periods of uninterrupted rest is critical for an infant's recovery after surgery. Rest allows the body to conserve energy, repair tissues, and allocate resources towards healing. Frequent interruptions can lead to stress, increased metabolic rate, and delayed recovery from the surgical procedure.