11. Cleft Lip

what complications are associated with cleft lip or palate?

• feeding difficulty and malnutrition

• speech and language problems

• recurrent otitis media and hearing loss

• dental problems

when is cleft lip repair typically performed?

by 3 months of age

when is cleft palate repair typically performed?

by 12 months of age

why does a cleft palate interfere with feeding?

prevents the infant from creating effective suction

what feeding equipment helps an infant with a cleft palate?

specialized nipples or squeezable bottles that do not require strong suction

how does breastfeeding ability differ between cleft lip and cleft palate?

• isolated cleft lip: may breastfeed if breast tissue seals the opening

• cleft palate: often cannot generate enough suction

how should an infant with a cleft lip or palate be positioned during feeding?

upright and seated

how should an infant with a cleft lip or palate be burped?

frequently while sitting on the caregiver’s lap

• avoid pressure on the lip or mouth

how long should feeding sessions last for an infant with a cleft lip or palate?

less than 30 minutes

• prevents fatigue and excessive calorie use

how should the nurse assess a newborn for a cleft palate?

inspect and palpate the hard and soft palate

how can the nurse support parental bonding with an infant who has a cleft lip or palate?

• encourage expression of feelings

• emphasize the infant’s positive features

• model nurturing care

• help with feeding