When caring for a newborn with myelomeningocele, what is crucial to prevent exposure to infection?

Maintaining sterility of the surgical site is crucial for preventing infection in a newborn with myelomeningocele. This condition involves a defect in the spinal column where the spinal cord and nerves are exposed, which creates a high risk for central nervous system infections, particularly meningitis. By ensuring the surgical site remains sterile, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the risk of introducing pathogens that could lead to infection.

While keeping the infant warm is important for overall health and comfort, it does not directly prevent infection. Administering antibiotics may be required if an infection is already present or to prevent it postoperatively. However, antibiotics alone do not replace the need for sterile techniques. Feeding the infant frequently is essential for nutrition and growth but also does not pertain specifically to infection prevention in the context of myelomeningocele care. Thus, maintaining a sterile environment around the surgical site is the primary focus to safeguard the newborn from infections.