The nurse should be aware that a pessary is most effective in the treatment of what disorder?

A. The nurse is responsible for determining that the parents or legal guardians understand what they are signing by asking them pertinent questions: Nurses play a key role in verifying comprehension of the procedure, clarifying information, and ensuring that the consent is informed. They do not provide detailed explanations of the procedure but ensure understanding.

B. The physician is responsible for serving as a witness to the signature process: The physician’s primary role is to provide the information about the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives, not to act as a witness. Witnessing is typically the nurse’s responsibility if required.

C. The physician is responsible for ensuring that the consent form is completed with signatures from the parents or legal guardians: Physicians ensure informed consent is obtained but do not necessarily verify the actual signatures; this is part of the documentation and nursing verification process.

D. The nurse is responsible for informing the child and family about the procedure and obtaining consent: Nurses reinforce understanding but do not independently provide detailed explanations or obtain legal consent; this remains the physician’s responsibility.

A. Administer analgesics: Pain control is essential after a tonsillectomy to promote oral intake and comfort. Analgesics reduce throat discomfort and help the child maintain hydration and nutrition, but they do not directly prevent life-threatening complications such as postoperative hemorrhage.

B. Encourage the child to drink liquids: Hydration supports mucosal healing and prevents dehydration, which is a common postoperative concern. However, while encouraging fluid intake is important, it does not directly address the risk of sudden, severe bleeding that can occur after tonsillectomy.

C. Inspect the throat for bleeding: Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage is the most serious complication, especially within the first 24 hours and around 5–10 days post-surgery when the scabs begin to slough. Careful observation for signs of active bleeding, such as frequent swallowing, vomiting blood, or fresh blood in the mouth, is critical to detect hemorrhage early.

D. Apply an ice collar: Ice collars can reduce local swelling and provide comfort by constricting blood vessels, helping with pain control. Although beneficial, this intervention does not address the immediate danger posed by postoperative bleeding and is secondary to monitoring for hemorrhage.