While caring for a child after undergoing a tonsillectomy, the child should be placed in what position to help facilitate drainage of secretions?

Explanation

• After surgery, place the child in the prone (on the stomach) or side-lying position. This allows blood and unswallowed saliva to drain out from the child’s mouth rather than back to the pharynx, where it may be aspirated.

• A tonsillectomy is the removal of all or part of the tonsils in the pharynx. Chronic tonsillitis is the main indication for removal of the tonsils.

Incorrect options:

• Supine, Trendelenburg's, and reverse Trendelenburg's do not facilitate drainage from the mouth and may increase the risk of aspiration.

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