What should a nurse administer to a toddler who is 24 hours postoperative following a cleft palate repair for pain management?

For a toddler who is 24 hours postoperative following a cleft palate repair, administering opioids for pain management is appropriate due to the surgical nature of the procedure and the potential for significant postoperative discomfort. Cleft palate repair involves manipulation of sensitive oral structures, which can lead to moderate to severe pain that is not adequately managed by over-the-counter medications alone.

Opioids are effective in providing relief from moderate to severe pain, allowing the child to recover more comfortably. It is essential to consider the child's specific pain level and the doctor's orders when administering opioids, as they will need to be monitored closely for any potential side effects or complications associated with opioid use, such as respiratory depression.

In this scenario, the other options may not provide sufficient pain management. Over-the-counter pain relievers might not be strong enough given the type of surgery performed. Intravenous fluids are typically used for hydration and maintenance rather than pain management. Topical anesthetics may not be effective enough for the depth of pain expected after such a surgical procedure. Therefore, the use of opioids is justified and aligns with standard pain management practices in pediatric postoperative care.