Which nursing care is to be provided pre-operatively to a baby born with exstrophy of the bladder?

Correct option is B

Ans. (b) Cover the bladder with sterile petroleum gauze
Sol. Exstrophy of the bladder is a congenital anomaly where the bladder is exposed outside the abdominal wall. To prevent infection and tissue damage, the bladder should be covered with sterile, non-adherent petroleum gauze to keep it moist and protected before surgical repair.
Explanation of each option:
(a) Immerse the baby in water while bathing – Incorrect. Immersion increases infection risk; only gentle cleaning is advised.
(b) Cover the bladder with sterile petroleum gauze – Correct answer. Maintains moisture and prevents infection.
(c) Place the baby in the prone position – Incorrect. The baby should be placed in a supine position to avoid pressure on the exposed bladder.
(d) Keep the bladder mucosa dry – Incorrect. The mucosa must remain moist to prevent desiccation and tissue damage.