Which of the following interventions is appropriate after a tonsillectomy?

After a tonsillectomy, one of the primary concerns is the risk of postoperative bleeding. Frequent swallowing can be an indication of bleeding, as the patient may be trying to swallow blood that has accumulated in the throat. Therefore, assessing the child for signs of bleeding and monitoring for frequent swallowing is crucial in the immediate recovery phase. This allows for quick intervention if bleeding occurs, which is one of the more serious complications following the procedure.

In contrast, encouraging activities like coughing or nose blowing can increase pressure in the throat and potentially lead to bleeding. Administering milk products can be problematic as well, since dairy can thicken secretions and may cause discomfort during healing. Lastly, limiting fluid intake is contrary to the need for hydration, which is important to facilitate recovery and keep throat tissues moist. Overall, monitoring for bleeding through frequent swallowing assessment is essential for the safety and well-being of a child post-tonsillectomy.