A nurse is caring for a child who is postoperative following the insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The nurse should place the child in which of the following positions?

A. Place the infant in prone position.

This option is incorrect. Placing the infant in the prone position (lying on the stomach) could put pressure on the spinal lesion, potentially causing discomfort or complications. It's important to minimize pressure on the affected area in infants with spina bifida.

B. Cover the infant's lesion with a dry cloth.

This option is incorrect. While keeping the lesion clean and dry is important for preventing infection, simply covering it with a dry cloth may not provide adequate protection. Proper wound care techniques, such as using sterile dressings and cleaning the area with prescribed solutions, are typically necessary to prevent infection and promote healing.

C. Feed the infant through an NG tube.

This option is incorrect. While infants with severe forms of spina bifida may have difficulty feeding due to associated complications, such as difficulty swallowing or weak sucking reflexes, feeding through a nasogastric (NG) tube is not a standard intervention for spina bifida itself. Feeding methods would depend on the specific needs and abilities of the infant, and may involve breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or other methods under the guidance of healthcare professionals.

D. Diapering over a low defect will keep the infant free from infection.

This option is correct. Diapering over a low defect (the opening in the spine caused by spina bifida) helps to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. By properly covering the defect with a diaper, exposure to urine and feces, which can increase the risk of infection, is minimized. Additionally, regular diaper changes and proper hygiene practices are essential for preventing complications in infants with spina bifida.

A. Decreased stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound caused by turbulent airflow through a narrowed or partially obstructed airway. In laryngotracheobronchitis, stridor is often present and may worsen with increasing airway obstruction. Therefore, decreased stridor would not be a typical finding associated with airway obstruction in this condition.

B. Increased restlessness: Increased restlessness can be a sign of worsening respiratory distress and impending airway obstruction. As the child struggles to breathe, they may become increasingly agitated and restless, indicating the need for prompt intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation.

C. Decreased heart rate: Decreased heart rate (bradycardia) is not typically associated with airway obstruction in laryngotracheobronchitis. In fact, the heart rate may increase as a compensatory response to hypoxia and respiratory distress.

D. Decreased temperature: Changes in temperature are not typically associated with airway obstruction in laryngotracheobronchitis. The focus of monitoring in this condition is primarily on respiratory distress and signs of worsening airway obstruction.