What key nursing care considerations are required after cleft lip repair?

• A. Protect the lip suture line and monitor for fever or infection.
• B. Use elbow restraints to prevent rubbing and keep the infant upright.
• C. Protect the lip suture line, use elbow restraints to prevent rubbing, position the infant to minimize edema, monitor for fever or infection, and avoid suction or straws unless directed.
• D. Avoid any restraints and rub the lip gently to promote circulation.

Answer: (C)

After cleft lip repair, protecting the lip suture line is essential to allow proper healing and prevent dehiscence or infection. Preventing trauma to the area is usually achieved with elbow restraints, which keep the infant's hands away from the face and the suture line. Positioning the infant to minimize edema helps reduce swelling that can put pressure on the repair and cause discomfort. Ongoing monitoring for fever or signs of infection is important so any issues can be addressed promptly. Finally, avoiding suction or straws unless directed by the surgeon prevents suction forces from disturbing the repair and compromising healing. Together, these care steps support a smooth recovery by protecting the surgical site, limiting trauma, and watching for complications.