A nurse is caring for an infant with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. a pyloromyotomy is scheduled. which pathophysiologic modification must be addressed before this surgery can be performed safely?

Answer: Fluid and electrolyte imbalances must be corrected.

Surgical repair of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is common in children and it's not a complicated procedure. However, properly preparation is vital. The risks of surgery are increased if dehydration and metabolic alkalosis due to prolonged vomiting are occurring (causing electrolyte imbalances).