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.