A nurse is assessing a child who has been brought in with a sore throat and fever.
The nurse suspects tonsillitis and knows that certain signs and symptoms are indicative of this condition.
Which of the following should the nurse consider? (Select all that apply).

Choice A rationale: Encouraging the child to participate in strenuous physical activities is not appropriate for a child with tonsillitis. Strenuous activities can exacerbate symptoms and delay recovery. Rest is important to help the child’s body fight the infection and recover more quickly. Therefore, it is not recommended to promote strenuous physical activities during illness.

Choice B rationale: Providing pain relief measures, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as prescribed, is important for managing the symptoms of tonsillitis. These medications can help reduce pain and fever, making the child more comfortable. Proper pain management is essential to ensure the child's comfort and facilitate recovery.

Choice C rationale: Offering cool or warm liquids and soft foods can help soothe a sore throat, which is a common symptom of tonsillitis. Cool liquids can help reduce throat swelling and irritation, while warm liquids can provide comfort. Soft foods are easier to swallow and less likely to irritate the inflamed throat. This dietary modification can help manage symptoms and promote recovery.

Choice D rationale: Educating the child and family about the importance of completing prescribed antibiotic therapy is crucial in the treatment of bacterial tonsillitis. Completing the full course of antibiotics ensures that the infection is fully eradicated and helps prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This education can lead to better adherence to the treatment regimen and more effective management of the condition.

Choice E rationale: Discouraging rest and promoting active play is not suitable for a child with tonsillitis. Rest is essential for recovery as it helps the body conserve energy to fight the infection. Active play can increase discomfort and fatigue, delaying recovery. Therefore, encouraging rest and avoiding strenuous activities is important for managing tonsillitis effectively.

Choice A rationale:

Tonsillitis is not always caused by bacterial infections.

It can also be caused by viral infections.

Choice B rationale:

Tonsillitis is not only caused by viral infections.

Bacterial infections can also lead to tonsillitis.

Choice C rationale:

Tonsillitis can be caused by either viral infections such as adenovirus, rhinovirus, or Epstein-Barr virus, or bacterial infections, particularly Streptococcus pyogenes.

This is the most accurate statement.

Streptococcus pyogenes is a common bacterial cause of tonsillitis, and viral infections can also lead to this condition.

Choice D rationale:

Tonsillitis is not usually caused by allergies.

While allergies can cause throat discomfort, they are not a common cause of tonsillitis.