A 10-month-old infant who has had a cleft palate repair returns to the nursing unit from surgery. Which of the following nursing actions demonstrates the most important priority for airway care?

Choice A reason: This statement is correct, as suctioning the mouth and nasopharyngeal passages is the most important priority for airway care in an infant who has had a cleft palate repair. The nurse should suction the infant frequently and gently to remove any blood, mucus, or secretions that may obstruct the airway or cause aspiration. The nurse should also monitor the infant's respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and signs of distress.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as giving IV morphine for pain is not the most important priority for airway care in an infant who has had a cleft palate repair. Although pain management is essential for the infant's comfort and recovery, it is not the first intervention for airway care. The nurse should assess the infant's pain level and administer the prescribed analgesics as needed, but only after ensuring the airway is clear and patent.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as cleaning the suture line with normal saline is not the most important priority for airway care in an infant who has had a cleft palate repair. Although wound care is important for the prevention of infection and the promotion of healing, it is not the first intervention for airway care. The nurse should clean the suture line with sterile saline or water as ordered, and avoid using cotton swabs or hydrogen peroxide that may damage the tissue or cause bleeding.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as elevating the head of the bed 30 degrees is not the most important priority for airway care in an infant who has had a cleft palate repair. Although elevating the head of the bed can help reduce the swelling and improve the drainage, it is not the first intervention for airway care. The nurse should position the infant on the side or abdomen, with the head slightly elevated, and avoid placing the infant on the back or putting pressure on the operative site.