Which mouth-care instruction should the nurse include for the child after palate repair?

• A. Encourage the child to drink water after each feeding.
• B. Rinse the mouth with alcohol-based mouthwash after every feeding.
• C. Brush the palate vigorously with a hard-bristled brush after meals.
• D. Avoid any fluids for 24 hours after feeding.

Answer: (A)

After palate repair, protecting the surgical site while keeping the mouth clean and well-hydrated supports proper healing. Encouraging the child to drink water after each feeding helps wash away food particles, reduces crusting around the incision, and provides gentle, non-irritating moisture to the healing tissues. Alcohol-based mouthwash should be avoided because its alcohol content can irritate and delay healing, especially in a child. Vigorous brushing of the palate with a hard-bristled brush could easily traumatize the sutures, so gentle cleaning with a soft brush is preferred if brushing is allowed. Avoiding fluids for 24 hours would risk dehydration and complicate recovery. Water after every feeding best promotes healing and comfort.