A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a 2-year-old child who has a high fever, severe dyspnea, and is drooling. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

Choice A reason: This is the best option to prevent the toddler from touching or injuring the surgical site. The nurse should apply soft padded restraints and check the circulation and skin integrity of the wrists frequently.

Choice B reason: Offering fluids through a straw is not recommended for a toddler who has had a cleft palate repair, as it can cause suction and pressure in the mouth that can disrupt the sutures. The nurse should offer fluids with a cup or a spoon.

Choice C reason: Implementing a soft diet is not appropriate for a toddler who has had a cleft palate repair, as it can cause irritation and infection in the mouth. The nurse should provide clear liquids for the first 24 hr and then advance to full liquids as tolerated.

Choice D reason: Administering opioids for pain is not the first choice for a toddler who has had a cleft palate repair, as it can cause respiratory depression and constipation. The nurse should use nonpharmacological methods such as distraction, comfort, and reassurance first, and then administer acetaminophen or ibuprofen as prescribed.

Choice A reason: Withholding fluids until the client demonstrates a gag reflex is a preventive measure to avoid aspiration of liquids into the lungs. The gag reflex is a protective mechanism that prevents foreign objects from entering the airway. It can be impaired by anesthesia, surgery, or trauma. Therefore, the nurse should assess the client's gag reflex before offering fluids or food¹.

Choice B reason: Suctioning the nasopharynx as needed is another preventive measure to avoid aspiration of blood or secretions into the lungs. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, such as frequent swallowing, restlessness, or bright red drainage. The nurse should also avoid stimulating the throat with tongue blades, straws, or suction catheters, as this can cause bleeding or spasm¹.

Choice C reason: Placing a bedside humidifier at the head of the client's bed is not a preventive measure to avoid aspiration, but rather a comfort measure to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Humidified air can help moisten the mucous membranes and promote healing. However, it does not prevent fluids or solids from entering the airway².

Choice D reason: Performing chest physiotherapy is not a preventive measure to avoid aspiration, but rather a treatment measure for clients who have respiratory complications, such as atelectasis or pneumonia. Chest physiotherapy involves percussion, vibration, and postural drainage to mobilize and remove secretions from the lungs. It is not indicated for clients who are postoperative following a tonsillectomy, as it can increase the risk of bleeding or pain³.

Choice E reason: Administering an antiemetic drug if the client is nauseous is a preventive measure to avoid aspiration of vomitus into the lungs. Nausea and vomiting are common postoperative complications that can be caused by anesthesia, pain, or opioids. The nurse should assess the client's nausea level and administer antiemetic drugs as prescribed. The nurse should also position the client on the side or with the head elevated to prevent aspiration¹.