While obtaining the vital signs of a 10-year-old child who had a tonsillectomy this morning, the nurse observes the child swallowing every 2 to 3 minutes.
Which assessment should the nurse implement?
Inspect the posterior oropharynx.
Touch the tonsillar pillars to stimulate the gag reflex.
Ask the child to speak to evaluate change in voice tone.
Assess for teeth clenching or grinding.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should inspect the posterior oropharynx of a child who is frequently swallowing after tonsillectomy to assess for bleeding or the presence of clots. Swallowing frequently can be a sign of postoperative bleeding, which is a potential complication of tonsillectomy.
Touching the tonsillar pillars to stimulate the gag reflex or asking the child to speak would not provide information about the presence of bleeding.
Assessing for teeth clenching or grinding is not related to this particular observation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When caring for a child in balanced suspension skeletal traction, the most important intervention for the nurse to implement is monitoring peripheral pulses and sensation in the affected leg to detect any compromise in circulation or nerve function. This is crucial because the traction places tension on the bones, which can result in nerve or vascular damage.
Changing positions every 2 hours is important to prevent pressure injuries, but it is not the most critical intervention.
Cleansing pin sites and assessing skin for redness and signs of tissue breakdown are also important, but they are not as urgent as monitoring peripheral pulses and sensation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
To determine a possible urinary tract infection in a preschool-aged child who presents with flank pain, dysuria, and low-grade fever, the nurse should gather additional information from the parent about new onset bedwetting. New onset bedwetting can be a sign of a urinary tract infection in children. The other options (A, B, and D) are not directly related to determining a possible urinary tract infection in this situation.
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