Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils- two small glands located at the back of the throat. It is caused by a virus or bacteria and symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands, and fever. Tonsillitis can affect people of all ages but is most common in children.
Adenoiditis is an inflammation of the adenoids. Adenoids are small glands that sit at the back of the nasal cavity and play a role in fighting off infections. Adenoiditis is mostly seen in children and is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms include nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, earache, obstructive sleep apnea, and sore throat.
Post-op Interventions
- Monitor airway
- Monitor for hemorrhage (frequent swallowing)
- Prone or side-lying
- Suction at the bedside but do not suction unless airway obstruction
- Discourage coughing or clearing throat to prevent bleeding
- Cool, noncitrus, noncarbonated drinks
- No milk products because produce phlegm
- No red food to prevent confusion with bleeding
- Acetaminophen for sore throat
- Avoid straws or forksÂ
