Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What statement by a guardian indicates understanding of discharge teaching for a child who has undergone a tonsillectomy?

1. My child can resume usual activities since this was just an outpatient surgery.

2. My child will be able to drink the chocolate milkshake I promised to get for them tonight.

3. I will notify the doctor if I notice that my child is swallowing frequently.

4. I will have my child gargle with warm salt water to relieve their sore throat.

The correct answer is: I will notify the doctor if I notice that my child is swallowing frequently.

The statement indicating understanding of discharge teaching is the one about notifying the doctor if the child is swallowing frequently. This response reflects an understanding of one of the potential complications following a tonsillectomy, which is bleeding. Frequent swallowing can be a sign that a child is attempting to clear blood from their throat, indicating the need for immediate medical evaluation. This awareness is crucial for guardians, as recognizing early signs of complications can lead to timely intervention and prevent more severe issues. The focus of post-operative care often includes monitoring for abnormal symptoms, and the willingness to report this change illustrates that the guardian is attentive to their child's condition after surgery. The other statements may reflect a misunderstanding of the post-operative care required for a child who has had a tonsillectomy. For example, resuming usual activities too soon can increase the risk of complications, and consumption of certain foods, like a chocolate milkshake, might not be advisable immediately after surgery due to potential throat discomfort and the risk of bleeding. Gargling with warm salt water is typically not recommended immediately after a tonsillectomy since it may irritate the throat further. Thus, recognizing the signs of complications is a key component of effective post-operative care.