A nurse is monitoring an infant who is receiving opioids for pain. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the medication is having a therapeutic effect?

Choice A Reason:

Relaxed facial expression is correct. Opioids, when effectively managing pain, can lead to a more relaxed facial expression in infants. It's a common indicator that the pain is being controlled and the infant is experiencing relief.

Choice B Reason:

Increased blood pressure is incorrect. Opioids usually cause a decrease in blood pressure rather than an increase. Elevated blood pressure wouldn't typically signify a therapeutic effect of opioids; it might indicate other factors such as stress, discomfort, or an adverse reaction.

Choice C Reason:

Limb withdrawal is incorrect. Limb withdrawal is a reflex action and might occur in response to a stimulus. It's not a direct indicator of pain relief; rather, it's a reflexive response to a sensation.

Choice D Reason:

Bradycardia is incorrect. Bradycardia, a slowed heart rate, can be a side effect of opioid medications. However, it's not an indicator of the therapeutic effect of pain relief. In fact, bradycardia might signal an adverse reaction or a dose that's too high for the infant.

A. "Postpone burping the infant until after completing each feeding."Burping should not be postponed. Infants with a cleft palate may have more difficulty with feeding and may need to be burped more frequently to reduce the risk of aspiration and discomfort.

B. "Feed the infant 177.4 ml. (6 oz) of formula three times each day."The amount and frequency of feeding should be individualized based on the infant's needs and growth patterns. Typically, an infant with a cleft palate requires more frequent, smaller feedings, and the total volume needs to be adjusted according to their specific nutritional needs.

C. "Discontinue a feeding if the infant's eyes become watery."Watery eyes during feeding can be a sign of aspiration or feeding difficulties. If this occurs, it is important to stop the feeding and assess the situation, as it may indicate that the infant is not handling the feeding well and could be at risk for aspiration or other complications.

D. "Elevate the infant's head to a 10° angle during feedings."A 10° angle may be too shallow to effectively prevent aspiration. Typically, the head should be elevated to a greater degree, often 30-45°, to help facilitate safer feeding and reduce the risk of aspiration in infants with a cleft palate.