A patient has had a tonsillectomy yesterday and is now tolerating clear fluids and per order diet can be increased. The patient asks for something different to "eat." Which is most appropriate for the nurse to offer?

A. Propranolol is a non-selective beta-blocker that can cause bronchoconstriction, making it contraindicated for patients with asthma. It can worsen asthma symptoms by blocking beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which are important for bronchodilation.
B. Theophylline is a bronchodilator that can be used in asthma management, especially in chronic cases. While it has a narrow therapeutic index and can have side effects, it is not contraindicated in acute exacerbations. However, it’s less commonly used today due to better alternatives.
C. Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation during asthma exacerbations. It is a common and appropriate medication for managing acute asthma attacks, so it does not require clarification.
D. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for long-term asthma control. It helps reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction. While it’s not a first-line treatment for acute exacerbations, it is appropriate for ongoing management and doesn’t need clarification.

A. Mouth breathing is common after a tonsillectomy due to postoperative swelling and discomfort. It is not specifically a sign of hemorrhage. Instead, it is a typical adjustment as the child copes with throat pain and may find it easier to breathe through the mouth.
B. While reports of pain are expected after a tonsillectomy due to the nature of the surgery, they are not indicative of hemorrhage. Pain management is an important part of postoperative care, but increased pain alone does not signal bleeding.
C. Frequent swallowing can be a significant manifestation of hemorrhage following a tonsillectomy. This behavior may indicate that the child is trying to clear blood or secretions from the throat, or it may suggest that the child is swallowing blood that is pooling in the throat. It is an important sign for the nurse to monitor, as it can indicate active bleeding.
D. Reports of thirst are common after surgery due to fasting before the procedure and the dry mouth that can result from mouth breathing or the surgical site itself. While excessive thirst should be addressed, it is not a direct indicator of hemorrhage.