A primipara mother has delivered a newborn baby with a cleft lip. While assessing the newborn, the nurse should assess for which of the following potential complications?

Explanation

• Because of the cleft lip defect, the child may be unable to form the mouth around the nipple adequately, thereby requiring special devices to allow for breastfeeding and sucking.

Incorrect options:

• Some infants with a cleft lip have an accompanying deviated nasal septum that can impair air movement and respiratory status. However, the scenario presented does not mention a deviated septum.

• Neither GI function nor mobility is compromised in a patient with a cleft lip.

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