Author Question: The parents of a newborn with an umbilical hernia ask about treatment options. The nurse's response ... (Read 66 times)

LCritchfi · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

The parents of a newborn with an umbilical hernia ask about treatment options. The nurse's response should be based on which knowledge?

a. Surgery is recommended as soon as possible.
b. The defect usually resolves spontaneously by 3 to 5 years of age.
c. Aggressive treatment is necessary to reduce its high mortality.
d. Taping the abdomen to flatten the protrusion is sometimes helpful.

Question 2

A child who has just had definitive repair of a high rectal malformation is to be discharged. What should the nurse address in the discharge preparation of this family?

a. Safe administration of daily enemas
b. Necessity of firm stools to keep suture line clean
c. Bowel training beginning as soon as the child returns home
d. Changes in stooling patterns to report to the practitioner

Amiracle · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The umbilical hernia usually resolves by ages 3 to 5 years of age without intervention. Umbilical hernias rarely become problematic. Incarceration, where the hernia is constricted and cannot be reduced manually, is rare. Umbilical hernias are not associated with a high mortality rate. Taping the abdomen flat does not help heal the hernia; it can cause skin irritation.

Answer to Question 2

: D
The parents are taught to notify the practitioner if any signs of an anal stricture or other complications develop. Constipation is avoided because a firm stool will place strain on the suture line. Daily enemas are contraindicated after surgical repair of a rectal malformation. Fiber and stool softeners are often given to keep stools soft and avoid tension on the suture line. The child needs to recover from the surgical procedure. Then bowel training may begin, depending on the child's developmental and physiologic readiness.