Tonsillitis in Pediatric Patients

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to tonsillitis in pediatric patients, including definitions, clinical signs, treatment, and nursing management.

Tonsillitis

Inflammation of the palatine tonsils, commonly occurring in childhood.

Acute Tonsillitis

Sudden onset tonsillitis that resolves with treatment.

Chronic Tonsillitis

Persistent inflammation or symptoms of the tonsils.

Recurrent Tonsillitis

Repeated episodes of tonsillitis over time.

Viral Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis primarily caused by viruses such as adenovirus, rhinovirus, and EBV.

Bacterial Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis caused by bacteria, commonly Group A beta hemolytic Streptococcus (Strep pyogenes).

Clinical Manifestations of Tonsillitis

Symptoms include sore throat, painful swallowing, fever, enlarged red tonsils, halitosis, malaise, and headache.

Assessment for Tonsillitis

Includes history of sore throat duration, fever pattern, and physical examination of tonsils and cervical nodes.

Indications for Tonsillectomy

Recurrent streptococcal infections, obstructive sleep disordered breathing, or peritonsillar abscess.

Complications of Tonsillitis

Includes peritonsillar abscess, airway obstruction, acute rheumatic fever, and post-strep glomerulonephritis.

Prevention Measures

Includes education on hand hygiene, cough etiquette, and avoiding sharing utensils.

Treatment for Bacterial Tonsillitis

Antibiotics prescribed for confirmed or suspected Group A Strep infections.

Viral vs Bacterial Tonsillitis Features

Viral often presents with cough and URI symptoms, while bacterial shows exudate and tender anterior cervical nodes.

Peritonsillar Abscess Signs

Muffled voice, trismus, and uvula deviation.

Rapid Antigen Detection Test (RADT)

Test used for diagnosing Group A Streptococcus in tonsillitis.

Cervical Lymphadenopathy in Tonsillitis

Enlargement of cervical lymph nodes due to immune response to tonsillar infection.

Home Care for Tonsillitis

Includes adequate hydration, pain control, and adherence to prescribed medications, especially antibiotics.