The laboratory test results and findings of s.G.'s preoperative workup are normal, and she is scheduled for

Question

her cheiloplasty.
What will you include in your preoperative teaching to S.G.'s parents?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Your child will be admitted to the PACU and will likely be discharged to home after careful
observation and recovery.
Pain: Your child will receive pain medication after surgery. It is important to keep S.G. comfortable
to decrease stress and crying, which puts tension on the surgical site. It also allows for successful
feeding and hydration.
Feeding: Your child will be able to feed once she is fully awake. The surgeon might suggest feeding
with a syringe or special cleft bottle to prevent stress to the surgical site. Note: Breastfeeding is
generally allowed when applicable; however, because of the fact that the child has an unrepaired
palate, breastfeeding is often not possible.
Position: Your child might return with elbow restraints to prevent her from rubbing her operative site.
This is controversial, and some surgeons do not use them because they can cause increased stress
to the infant. The prone position should be avoided, and S.G. should be in a semi-reclined position
for feeding to prevent aspiration.
Incision: You might be instructed to clean the surgical site with normal saline and apply topical
antibiotic ointment.