What are tonsils?
Masses of lymphoid tissue in pharyngeal cavity
Tonsils play a role in the immune system.
List symptoms associated with enlarged adenoids.
- Mouth breathing
- Mouth odour
- Impaired taste & smell
- Muffled & nasal voice
- Persistent cough
- Otitis media or hearing difficulties
Enlarged adenoids can lead to various complications affecting breathing and hearing.
True or false: Surgery for tonsillitis is always required.
FALSE
Surgery may be controversial and is not always necessary.
What are the components of supportive care for tonsillitis?
- Soft to liquid diet
- Cool-mist vaporizer
- Warm saltwater gargles
- Throat lozenges
- Analgesic-antipyretic drugs
Supportive care is recommended when surgery is not performed.
Post-operative care for tonsillectomy includes positioning to facilitate _______.
drainage
Proper positioning helps prevent complications after surgery.
What should be discouraged post-op after a tonsillectomy?
- Coughing
- Clearing throats
- Blowing nose
These actions can increase the risk of bleeding.
What is the recommended post-op analgesia duration for tonsillectomy?
24-48 hours
Regular analgesia is important for pain management after surgery.
What medications should be avoided post-op for tonsillectomy?
- Codeine
- Aspirin
These medications can pose risks in the post-operative period.
What does NPO stand for in post-operative care?
Nothing by mouth
Patients should remain NPO until alert and able to swallow without signs of hemorrhage.
What should be observed for post-op tonsillectomy?
- Hemorrhage
- Tachycardia
- Pallor
- Frequent clearing of throat or swallowing
- Vomiting or secretions with bright red blood
These signs indicate potential complications that require immediate attention.
What type of diet is recommended for supportive care in tonsillitis?
Soft to liquid diet
This helps ease swallowing and provides necessary nutrition.
Name a supportive care method for tonsillitis that involves moisture.
Cool-mist vaporizer
This can help soothe the throat and ease breathing.
What is a recommended home remedy for tonsillitis that involves salt?
Warm saltwater gargles
Gargling can help reduce throat inflammation and discomfort.
What type of medication is used for pain relief in tonsillitis?
Analgesic-antipyretic drugs
These medications help alleviate pain and reduce fever.
Post-operative care for tonsillitis includes positioning to facilitate _______.
drainage
Proper positioning helps prevent complications after surgery.
What should be discouraged post-operatively to prevent complications?
- Coughing
- Clearing throats
- Blowing nose
These actions can increase the risk of bleeding.
What is used to provide comfort and reduce swelling post-operatively?
Ice collar
This helps manage pain and swelling around the throat area.
How long should regular analgesia be provided post-operatively?
24-48 hours
This duration helps manage pain effectively after surgery.
What medications should be avoided post-operatively for tonsillitis?
NO codeine or aspirin
These medications can increase the risk of bleeding.
What is the NPO guideline for tonsillitis patients post-operatively?
NPO until alert, able to swallow & no signs of hemorrhage
This ensures safety before resuming oral intake.
What types of foods and drinks are allowed post-operatively for tonsillitis?
- Popsicles
- Cool water
- Ice
- Soft foods
These options are gentle on the throat and easy to swallow.
What symptoms should be observed for post-operatively in tonsillitis patients?
- Hemorrhage
- Tachycardia
- Pallor
- Frequent clearing of throat or swallowing
- Vomiting or secretions with bright red blood
These symptoms indicate potential complications that require immediate attention.
