Question

A nurse is caring for a child who is postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Offer the child orange juice to promote hydration.
B. Administer aspirin for pain relief.
C. Encourage the child to cough to clear the throat of mucus.
D. Monitor for signs of bleeding, such as frequent swallowing or vomiting blood.

Answer 1

The nurse caring for a child post-tonsillectomy should offer clear fluids, administer pain medication, and monitor for signs of bleeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a child post-tonsillectomy, the nurse should take the following actions:

1. Offer the child clear fluids like water or ice chips to prevent dehydration.
2. Administer age-appropriate pain medication, such as acetaminophen, as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
3. Monitor the child for signs of bleeding, such as frequent swallowing or vomiting blood, and report any abnormal findings to the healthcare provider immediately.

It is important to avoid offering acidic or citrus drinks like orange juice, as they can irritate the surgical site. Aspirin should not be given as it can increase the risk of bleeding. While coughing may be encouraged in some cases, the child should follow the healthcare provider's instructions when it comes to activities like coughing or clearing the throat to prevent any complications.