Which sign would indicate a potential hemorrhage in a toddler after a tonsillectomy?

Which sign would indicate a potential hemorrhage in a toddler after a tonsillectomy?

• A. Increased blood pressure
• B. Frequent swallowing
• C. Fever
• D. Pain at the surgical site

Answer: (B)

Frequent swallowing after a tonsillectomy is a crucial sign that may indicate a potential hemorrhage in a toddler. Following this surgical procedure, if a child is swallowing more often, it could suggest that they are noticing blood in their saliva or throat, prompting them to clear their throat or swallow to manage the situation. This behavior is particularly important to monitor because post-operative bleeding can occur, and early recognition of signs can help in timely intervention. In contrast, increased blood pressure might not strongly correlate with hemorrhage in this immediate context, as it can be influenced by various factors including discomfort or anxiety. Fever can indicate infection or inflammation but is not a direct sign of hemorrhaging. Pain at the surgical site may occur as part of normal recovery; while important to assess, it isn’t specific to the risk of bleeding. Thus, monitoring for frequent swallowing is essential in assessing a toddler's status post-tonsillectomy for any potential complications such as hemorrhage.

Frequent swallowing after a tonsillectomy is a crucial sign that may indicate a potential hemorrhage in a toddler. Following this surgical procedure, if a child is swallowing more often, it could suggest that they are noticing blood in their saliva or throat, prompting them to clear their throat or swallow to manage the situation. This behavior is particularly important to monitor because post-operative bleeding can occur, and early recognition of signs can help in timely intervention.

In contrast, increased blood pressure might not strongly correlate with hemorrhage in this immediate context, as it can be influenced by various factors including discomfort or anxiety. Fever can indicate infection or inflammation but is not a direct sign of hemorrhaging. Pain at the surgical site may occur as part of normal recovery; while important to assess, it isn’t specific to the risk of bleeding. Thus, monitoring for frequent swallowing is essential in assessing a toddler's status post-tonsillectomy for any potential complications such as hemorrhage.