A nurse is caring for a school-age child who is 1hr postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

Postoperative care following a tonsillectomy in a school-age child focuses on airway protection, bleeding prevention, pain control, and promoting safe recovery. The immediate postoperative period carries a high risk for hemorrhage due to the vascular nature of the surgical site. Children may not always verbalize bleeding, so nurses must rely on subtle clinical indicators. Maintaining airway safety and minimizing irritation to the surgical site are critical priorities in care. Rationale: A. Maintaining the child in a supine position is incorrect because it increases the risk of aspiration if bleeding or emesis occurs. The preferred position is side-lying or prone with the head slightly turned to facilitate drainage and prevent airway obstruction. Supine positioning can compromise airway safety in this postoperative period. B. Observing the child for frequent swallowing is important because it may indicate occult bleeding from the surgical site. Blood trickling into the throat can be swallowed rather than visible externally, and repeated swallowing is an early sign of hemorrhage. Prompt recognition allows for immediate intervention to prevent significant blood loss. C. Discouraging the child from coughing is appropriate because coughing can disrupt the surgical site and increase the risk of bleeding. It can also cause irritation and pain in the throat, potentially leading to complications. Minimizing throat irritation helps protect the surgical area during healing. D. Providing cranberry juice is inappropriate because acidic or red-colored liquids can irritate the throat and may be mistaken for blood if vomiting occurs. Fluids should be cool, clear, and non-irritating, such as water or apple juice. Acidic beverages may also increase discomfort at the surgical site. E. Administering analgesics on a scheduled basis is appropriate because it helps maintain consistent pain control and promotes comfort, hydration, and recovery. Adequate pain management encourages the child to drink fluids, reducing the risk of dehydration. It also helps minimize agitation that could disrupt the surgical site.