A nurse understands that it is a priority to place a child in which position post-operative tonsillectomy.

A. Sitting upright may help with drainage and comfort once the child is more awake, but immediately post-op, it is not the safest initial position because the child may still be drowsy from anesthesia and at risk for airway obstruction. B. Prone position alone does allow secretions to drain forward, but it is not always the most comfortable or safest option for all children. C. Prone or side-lying position is the priority immediately after a tonsillectomy. These positions facilitate drainage of secretions, reduce the risk of aspiration, and help maintain a patent airway while the child is recovering from anesthesia. Once fully awake and alert, the child may then be positioned upright if tolerated. D. Lying flat on the back increases the risk of airway obstruction and aspiration from blood or secretions, making it unsafe post-operatively.