After surgical repair of a cleft lip and palate, how should a nurse care for the infant?

After surgical repair of a cleft lip and palate, it is essential to prioritize the infant's airway and comfort while minimizing the risk of trauma to the surgical site. The correct course of action involves gently suctioning with a bulb syringe as needed. This method allows the nurse to carefully clear any secretions that could obstruct the infant's airway without causing additional stress or damage to the tender tissues that have just undergone surgical repair.

Using a bulb syringe gently is crucial because it provides a way to manage any mucus or fluids that may accumulate, which can happen after surgery. The technique should be done with care to avoid excessive suctioning that might disturb the surgical site.

Other methods of airway clearance, such as aggressive suctioning, could lead to complications or injury to the healing tissues. Likewise, using a pacifier could potentially create suction that might strain the repaired area's integrity, while maintaining the infant in an upright position at all times might not be practical or necessary unless specifically indicated by the healthcare provider. Therefore, gentle suctioning with a bulb syringe allows for effective airway management while respecting the sensitivity of the surgical area.