Staff members working with school-aged children believe it is important for each child to understand and agree to medical treatment, especially when treatment is part of research protocols. The term for this process is:

Choice A reason: This response is not the priority action because dehydration is not an immediate threat to the child's life. The nurse should first rule out any signs of hemorrhage, which is a common complication of tonsillectomy.

Choice B reason: This response is not the priority action because pain medication may mask the symptoms of bleeding, such as increased swallowing or restlessness. The nurse should first assess the child for any signs of hemorrhage, and then administer pain medication as needed.

Choice C reason: This response is not the priority action because cherry popsicles may irritate the throat and cause bleeding. The nurse should first assess the child for any signs of hemorrhage, and then offer clear fluids or ice chips to the child.

Choice D reason: This response is the priority action because post-op bleeding is a serious and potentially fatal complication of tonsillectomy. The nurse should assess the operative site for any signs of bleeding, such as fresh blood, clots, or increased swallowing. The nurse should also monitor the child's vital signs, oxygen saturation, and level of consciousness. If bleeding is suspected, the nurse should notify the physician immediately and prepare for emergency interventions.

Choice A reason: Respiratory tract infection is not a correct answer because it is not a complication of examining the child's throat. It is a possible cause of epiglottitis, which is an inflammation of the epiglottis, the flap that covers the entrance to the trachea.

Choice B reason: Sore throat is not a correct answer because it is not a complication of examining the child's throat. It is a symptom of epiglottitis, along with fever, difficulty swallowing, and drooling.

Choice C reason: Complete airway obstruction is the correct answer because it is a life-threatening complication of examining the child's throat. The tongue depressor can trigger a spasm of the epiglottis, which can block the airway and cause respiratory distress or arrest.

Choice D reason: Inspiratory stridor is not a correct answer because it is not a complication of examining the child's throat. It is a sign of upper airway obstruction, which can occur in epiglottitis, but it is not caused by the tongue depressor.