C - cleft lip & palate

Question 1

Whats cleft lip & palate?

Answer 1

lip: split in upper lip
palate: split in roof of mouth

Question 2

Nursing management for patients with cleft lip & palate? (3)

Answer 2

1. Post-op interventions & monitor for complications related to the procedure
   - soft elbow immobilizers -> prevent infant from damaging suture
   - Logan bow -> protects, decreases stress on the surgical site, keep repaired tissue in alignment
2. feed small amts using oropharyngeal syringe once they can tolerate feeding
   - position upright: during & at least 30 mins after each feeding -> prevent aspiration
   - use clear water to rinse mouth & suture -> prevent infection
3. teach family how to:
   - feed baby with syringe -> resume bottle/breast feeding after incision site heals
   - care for incision site
   - keep elbow restraints for 10 days after op