Question

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to the guardian of a school-age child who has undergone a tonsillectomy. Which of the following statements by the guardian indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. "I should give the child hard, crunchy snacks for the first few days."
B. "It's okay for the child to resume regular physical activities immediately."
C. "I'll avoid giving the child any pain medication to prevent complications."
D. "I'll encourage the child to cough forcefully to clear the throat."

Answer 1

The correct response of the guardian should involve providing soft foods, ensuring the child rests and refrains from physical activities, administering prescribed pain medication, and avoiding forceful coughing post-tonsillectomy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject question concerns Health, specifically postoperative care for a child who has undergone a tonsillectomy. The correct statement by the guardian that indicates an understanding of the discharge teaching would be one that aligns with standard post-operative advice for tonsillectomy patients. This typically includes avoiding hard, crunchy foods that can irritate the throat, refraining from vigorous physical activity which could lead to bleeding, administering pain medication as directed to manage discomfort, and avoiding forceful coughing which can also disturb the surgical site.

Therefore, none of the options A, B, C, or D are correct. The guardian should be informed to provide soft foods, encourage rest, administer pain medication if prescribed, and instruct the child to avoid forceful coughing or throat clearing to facilitate a smooth recovery.