How to Prepare a Child for a Tonsilectomy

A tonsillectomy, a surgery that involves removing the tonsils under general anesthesia, usually doesn't require more than an overnight hospital stay. A recommended treatment for people who get tonsillitis approximately five times in a year, a tonsillectomy is performed quite often on children. Some children may have feelings of fear or apprehension about the surgery. Adults can prepare a child for a tonsillectomy by applying these steps.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror

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Instructions

• 1

  Sit with the child in a quiet, comfortable place so he or she is at ease and more receptive.

• 2

  Give the child a mirror and have him open his mouth. Show him where his tonsils are.

• 3

  Explain to the child that she will be having surgery to have her tonsils taken out because she no longer needs them.

• 4

  Ask him how he feels when he sleeps. Tell him during the surgery that he will be put to sleep and feel the same way.

• 5

  Prepare the child for discomfort after the procedure. Let her know that even though she may feel pain, it is only temporary and she can eat cold, soft foods such as ice cream to ease the pain.

• 6

  Have the child talk in a whisper. Explain to him that this is how he will be talking for several days after surgery.

• 7

  Take the child on a tour of the hospital. The surgery may not seem as scary if the child is familiar with the hospital and what the inside looks like.

• 8

  Have the child talk to others who have had a tonsillectomy. If you do not know anyone who has had tonsils removed, ask the doctor performing the surgery whether he or she has any patients who would be willing to talk to the child.

• 9

  Ask the child if she has any questions or concerns about having her tonsils removed. Some children may need a little probing to feel they can express their true feelings about the procedure and recovery.