What information should a nurse provide to parents after their child has heart surgery?

After a child has undergone heart surgery, it's essential for parents to be vigilant about their child's recovery and overall well-being. One important aspect of this is monitoring the child's appetite. If there is a decrease in appetite, it could indicate complications or an adverse reaction to medications, which may require immediate attention from a healthcare provider. Therefore, advising parents to contact the healthcare provider if their child's appetite decreases helps ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

The other options do not provide appropriate guidance for post-operative care. Encouraging outdoor play is generally not advisable immediately after heart surgery due to the need for limited physical exertion during the healing process. The recommendation regarding creams on the incision site is inappropriate, as using topical products could interfere with healing or increase the risk of infection. Finally, while some limitations on physical activity are necessary, suggesting a strict two-week limit may not be suitable for all children, as recovery can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and their specific surgical procedure.