An important nursing intervention when caring for a child with myelomeningocele in the postoperative stage is to:

O measure head circumference and examine fontanels for signs that might indicate developing hydrocephalus.

Before surgery the child is kept in a prone position to decrease tension on the sac and reduce risk of trauma. The sac must be kept moist. Sterile, moist, nonadherent dressings are placed over the sac. Most infants do not have diarrheal stools. Hydrocephalus is frequently associated with myelomeningocele. Assessment of the fontanels and daily measurements of head circumference will aid in early detection.