The nurse is caring for a newborn diagnosed with esophageal atresia and a
Explanation
• Esophageal atresia means the esophagus does not connect to the stomach. There are several types, including the tracheoesophageal fistula, which is a communication between the trachea and esophagus, allowing some matter to enter the trachea and bronchus when swallowing, leading to aspiration.
• The initial feeding of a newborn will reveal the presence of an esophageal atresia with a tracheoesophageal fistula. The infant will begin to choke and cough since the normal route for swallowing is not present. The abnormality will also cause excessive drooling by the infant and cyanosis.