throat examination in children
Last reviewed 01/2018
For the examination of the throat the child should sit on an adult's lap, facing forwards. Both hands should be secured by the adult with one hand, the head held firmly against the chest with the other.
Examination of the throat is best left as the last item of any examination as it is seldom comfortable. It is much easier if the child willingly opens his mouth but if not, be firm, gentle, quick and careful. Be ready to distract the child afterwards with words, smiles or toys before there is time for distress; the examination is usually quickly forgotten.