Nursing management of tonsillitis: Tonsillitis is defined as the swelling of the tonsil. Tonsils are the ball of the lymphatic tissues on both sides of the throat. They are part of the immune system which help the body to fight against infection.
Tonsillitis is an inflammation or infection of the tonsils, which are two small masses of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat. It is most commonly caused by a viral or bacterial infection, with streptococcus bacteria being a common culprit.
Risk Factors
- Viral infection
- Poor orodental hygiene
- Poor nutritional status
- Otitis Media
Pathophysiology
Clinical Manifestation
- High grade fever
- Malaise and body ache
- Pain during swallowing(odynophagia)
- Dry mouth-Sore throat
- Congested and edematous tonsil
- Crypts can be seen filled with pus with swollen follicles in folicular tonsilitis
Assessment and diagnostic evaluation
- Physical examination
- CBC-Throat swab for culture
- Nasal endoscopy
- Clotting and prothrombin time
Medical Management
- If the symptoms are severe,the patient must be hospitalized-Penicillin used in case of streptococcus infection
- Erythromycin should be preferred in patient sensitive to penicilin
- Antiseptic gargles may be given
- Anti inflammatory for pain and inflammation
Nursing Care Plan For Tonsilitis
Assessment
- History taking
- Physical examination
- Nutritional status
- Skin condition
- Personal hygiene
- Anxiety level
- Knowledge level
Nursing Diagnosis For Tonsillitis
- Risk for deficient fluid volume related to reduced intake post operatively and blood loss
- Ineffective airway clearance related to pain and effects of anesthesia
- Anxiety of the patient related to concept of surgery
- Fear related to Painful procedure and unfamiliar environment.
Nursing Interventions For Tonsillitis
- A liquid or soft diet is given during acute stage of disease
- In severe conditions administer fluid intravenously (IV Fluid)
- Encourage patient to drink water as much as possible(2-3lit/min)
- Instruct the patient to take rest
- Educate about warm saline antiseptic gargling
- Instruct the patient to take bed rest with increased fluid intake during fever
- Instruct the patient to avoid the use of alcohol,tobacco and second hand smoking
- Voice rest
- Instruct the patient to maintain proper oral hygiene
Nursing Management of Tonsilitis
Nursing management of tonsillitis focuses on providing supportive care, relieving symptoms, preventing complications, and promoting the patient’s recovery. Here are some key aspects of nursing management for tonsillitis:
- Assessment: The nurse should assess the patient’s history, including the onset and duration of symptoms, previous treatment, and any associated conditions. Physical examination may reveal enlarged and inflamed tonsils, throat redness, presence of exudate, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Education: Provide the patient and their family with information about tonsillitis, including the causes, symptoms, and potential complications. Teach them about self-care measures, medications, and when to seek further medical attention.
- Symptom management: Assist the patient in relieving symptoms such as sore throat, pain, and fever. Encourage the use of over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as prescribed by the healthcare provider. Provide cool or warm saline gargles to soothe the throat.
- Hydration: Encourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and promote throat lubrication. Offer cool liquids, ice chips, or popsicles to soothe the throat.
- Rest and comfort: Advise the patient to rest and limit physical activities to aid in the recovery process. Provide a comfortable environment, including a quiet room with proper ventilation.
- Contagion control: Educate the patient about the contagious nature of tonsillitis, particularly if it is caused by a bacterial infection. Emphasize the importance of hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with others, and proper disposal of used tissues.
- Medication administration: Administer prescribed antibiotics if the tonsillitis is bacterial in nature. Ensure the patient understands the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics. If tonsillitis is viral, support the patient with symptomatic relief medications as needed.
- Nutritional support: Provide soft, easily swallowed foods that are soothing to the throat, such as soups, mashed potatoes, or smoothies. Encourage the patient to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration.
- Follow-up care: Schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the patient’s progress. Ensure that the patient and their family understand the signs of worsening symptoms or potential complications and when to seek further medical attention.
- Support and reassurance: Offer emotional support and reassurance to the patient, particularly if they are experiencing discomfort, difficulty eating, or anxiety related to the illness. Provide information about the expected duration of symptoms and the importance of following the prescribed treatment plan.