A child had a tonsillectomy this morning.What action by the nurse is most important for the child's safety?
A) Avoid giving her red popsicles.
B) Limit activity the first night.
C) Offer ice cream when awake.
D) Position the child on her side.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

After tonsillectomy,children are placed on their side to facilitate drainage and prevent aspiration.Maintaining a patent airway is the priority.Red-colored foods or fluids are not given,as the nurse may not be able to differentiate between the food and bloody drainage; however,this is not a priority for safety.Activity should be limited,but this does not take priority over maintaining the airway.Ice cream and other dairy products are not given because they coat the throat and usually cause coughing or throat clearing,which can lead to bleeding.

A Child Had a Tonsillectomy This Morning