Which statement best describes the purpose of analgesia after tonsillectomy?

• A. To maintain comfort and allow adequate oral intake while minimizing bleeding risk.
• B. To ensure the patient sleeps constantly.
• C. To prevent infection.
• D. To mask fever.

Answer: (A)

Pain control after tonsillectomy is aimed at keeping the child comfortable enough to swallow and drink. When pain is well managed, oral intake improves, dehydration is prevented, and healing can proceed more smoothly. Adequate analgesia also reduces throat movements, coughing, or retching that could disturb clots and increase bleeding risk. The goal is not to sedate the child, prevent infection, or mask fever. So the best description is comfort with adequate oral intake while keeping bleeding risk as low as possible.