What instructions should the nurse include in the post-operative discharge instructions for a 6-year-old who just had a tonsillectomy? (Select All That Apply)
Pain needs to be managed, as children will not eat or drink when in pain and can quickly become dehydrated.
Report mild ear pain or bad breath after surgery.
Your child may eat soft foods, no crunchy foods for the first few days.
Your child will form scabs on their tonsils as they heal, there is no need to monitor them during this healing period.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A rationale
Pain management is crucial after a tonsillectomy. Pain can prevent children from eating or drinking, leading to dehydration. Therefore, ensuring that the child’s pain is well managed is an important part of post-operative care.
Choice B rationale
Mild ear pain or bad breath after surgery can be signs of complications such as infection. Therefore, parents should be instructed to report these symptoms if they occur.
Choice C rationale
After a tonsillectomy, the throat is often sore and swollen. Eating soft foods can help prevent further irritation or injury to the throat. Crunchy foods could scratch the healing throat and cause discomfort.
Choice D rationale
While it’s true that scabs will form on the tonsils as they heal, it’s important to monitor them. If a scab dislodges too early, it can cause bleeding. Therefore, this statement is not entirely accurate and should not be included in the discharge instructions.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering enteral bolus feeds prior to surgery is not typically recommended for infants with a tracheoesophageal fistula. This is because the fistula can allow food or liquid to enter the trachea and lungs, leading to aspiration and potential respiratory complications.
Choice B rationale
Administering Famotidine prior to surgery can help reduce the risk of gastric acid reflux, which can lead to aspiration during surgery. This is particularly important in infants with a tracheoesophageal fistula, as the fistula can allow stomach contents to enter the trachea.
Choice C rationale
Administering IV antibiotics prior to surgery can help prevent infection. This is a common practice in many types of surgery, including surgery to repair a tracheoesophageal fistula.
Choice D rationale
Administering IV fluids during surgery can help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. This is particularly important in infants, who have a higher risk of dehydration.
Choice E rationale
Administering 100% oxygen via a non-rebreather mask during surgery can help ensure that the infant has adequate oxygen levels. This is particularly important during surgery, as the infant will be under general anesthesia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. However, a 2-year-old child may not have the cognitive ability to develop PTSD as it requires a certain level of cognitive and psychological development.
Choice B rationale
While separation anxiety is a normal stage of development for infants and toddlers, a 2-year- old child in a burn unit is more likely to be afraid of the pain associated with wound dressing changes rather than being separated from his/her parents.
Choice C rationale
Fear of permanent scarring could be a concern for older children and adults who are more aware of their body image. A 2-year-old child may not have the cognitive ability to understand the concept of permanent scarring.
Choice D rationale
The child is likely worried about the pain associated with the procedure. Pain experienced by patients is likely to increase during procedures such as dressing changes. This is a common and immediate fear for children undergoing medical procedures, especially those associated with pain.
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