ANSWERS 100% CORRECT
EA-Manifestations Correct Answer: Failure to pass suction catheter, NG tube at
birth
Excessive oral secretions, drooling
Vomiting (undigested formula)
Abdominal distention
Airless, scaphoid abdomen (atresia without fistula)
Sonorous (seal like bark cough)
Choking with feeding
R.distress and cyanosis (if secretions aspirated)
EA-Patho Correct Answer: Occurs when the proximal end of the esophagus ends
in blind pouch; food unable to enter stomach through esophagus.
With TEF: Occurs when connection exists between the esophagus and trachea;
may result in reflux of gastric juice after feeding(4-5weeks of pregnancy) Food
enters lungs, air enters stomach
Cause is unknown
Can be with or without TEF (tracheoesophageal fistula)
No difference in sex and incidence
Nearly half born with EA have other congenital defects (cardiac, GI, CNS)
Prematurity
Low birth weight
EA-Preop Correct Answer: Initial repair includes ligation of the fistula and end-to-
side anastomosis of the atresia to decrease the severity of stricture formation.
G-tube placed
Anastomosis, colon interposition, and dilation (expected later)
Evaluation and treatment of esophageal motility dysfunction, gastroesophageal
reflux, strictures, bronchitis and pneumonia may occur as the child grows
EA-Assessment Correct Answer: The infant with TEF is at constant risk of
aspiration
Assess R.distress immediately after birth
Examine for excessive oral secretions, choking, and cyanosis.
, Difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, vomiting, and unexplained cyanosis after
inital feeding of an undiagnosed infant are important findings that requires
notification of physician immediately.
Measure abdominal distention
Continually asses VS and distress (respiratory effort, nasal flaring, retraction,
cyanosis)
Polyhydramnios (too much amniotic fluid surrounding an unborn infant)
Radiopaque catheter
Chest x-ray
Family assessment of anxiety, fears, concerns, and level of knowledge
3 C's when assessing and managing the child with EA and TEF Correct Answer:
Coughing, choking with feedings, and cyanosis
Prevent aspiration while neonate is being prepared for surgery
TEF-Interventions Correct Answer: Immediately after birth:
Radiant warmer
Humidified O2
(Relieve R.distress)
Preop:
NPO
IV fluids for hydration
Maintaining thermoregulation (radiant warmer) and fluid balance
Monitor Temp and VS
Accurate I&O records
Prevention of aspiration supine, 30*HOB(also reduces reflux)
Suction catheter (into proximal pouch and mouth) (nose &mouth to keep area
behind pouch empty)
G-tube gravity feedings (to allow air to escape from the stomach)
Constant R assessment
Provide support to parents
Postop:
Monitor R.status
Fluid, nutrition, temperature regulation
Manage pain
Monitor for infection
Promote bonding