What information should a nurse plan to give the parents of a 9-month-old infant who is to be discharged after a cleft palate repair?

Choice A rationale:

While maintaining a moist oral mucosa is important, preventing infection takes precedence, as infections can lead to serious complications and compromise overall health.

Choice B rationale:

Increasing physical mobility is a valid goal, but infection prevention is more critical, especially when starting prednisone therapy, which can weaken the immune response.

Choice C rationale:

The priority lies in keeping the patient free of infection. Prednisone can suppress the immune system, making the patient more susceptible to infections that can have severe consequences.

Choice D rationale:

Ingesting a moderate potassium diet is important, but the prevention of infection takes precedence due to the potential for serious health risks associated with compromised immunity.

Choice A rationale:

The statement about an increased risk for developing obesity is accurate. However, this does not indicate a need for further education about Down syndrome, as obesity is a common concern in the general population as well.

Choice B rationale:

The statement about an increased risk for developing diabetes would indicate a need for further education. Individuals with Down syndrome are indeed at an elevated risk of developing diabetes, often in their early adulthood.

Choice C rationale:

The statement about an increased risk for developing cataracts is accurate. However, it is not a primary concern associated with Down syndrome in infancy.

Choice D rationale:

The statement about skeletal abnormalities is accurate. While individuals with Down syndrome can have certain skeletal features, this is not a critical concern during infancy.