Which of the following nursing measures would be effective in preventing aspiration in a post-tonsillectomy client?
a. Perform chest physiotherapy (CPT) every four hours
b. Suction the nasopharynx as needed
c. Place a bedside humidifier at the head of bed
d. Withhold all fluids until the client demonstrates a gag reflex
Answer D. Following tonsillectomy, the gag reflex may be suppressed from local anesthetics of edema.
To prevent aspiration, the gag reflex must be present before allowing the client to have fluids.
a. Perform chest physiotherapy (CPT) every four hours
b. Suction the nasopharynx as needed
c. Place a bedside humidifier at the head of bed
d. Withhold all fluids until the client demonstrates a gag reflex
Answer D. Following tonsillectomy, the gag reflex may be suppressed from local anesthetics of edema.
To prevent aspiration, the gag reflex must be present before allowing the client to have fluids.