After returning from surgery an infant suddenly becomes cyanotic. Which action would the nurse take first?

After returning from surgery an infant suddenly becomes cyanotic. Which action would the nurse take first?

• A. Checking vital signs
• B. Administering oxygen
• C. Suctioning the nasopharynx
• D. Placing the infant in the side-lying position

Answer: (C)

When a post-op infant becomes suddenly cyanotic, the top priority is restoring a clear airway. Suctioning the nasopharynx directly removes mucus, blood, or edema that can abruptly obstruct airflow. Clearing the airway allows air to enter the lungs and oxygen to reach the tissues, which is the quickest way to reverse cyanosis in a newborn. After the airway is cleared, you would support breathing with oxygen as needed and position the infant to maximize airway patency, while continuing to monitor vital signs. Other actions, like checking vitals, giving oxygen without clearing the obstruction, or just placing the infant on the side, don’t address the immediate blockage and won’t rapidly improve oxygenation.

When a post-op infant becomes suddenly cyanotic, the top priority is restoring a clear airway. Suctioning the nasopharynx directly removes mucus, blood, or edema that can abruptly obstruct airflow. Clearing the airway allows air to enter the lungs and oxygen to reach the tissues, which is the quickest way to reverse cyanosis in a newborn.

After the airway is cleared, you would support breathing with oxygen as needed and position the infant to maximize airway patency, while continuing to monitor vital signs. Other actions, like checking vitals, giving oxygen without clearing the obstruction, or just placing the infant on the side, don’t address the immediate blockage and won’t rapidly improve oxygenation.