Hi, A.,
My name is C.. I'm a single mom of three; boys, 11 & 14, and a little girl, 2. My sons both had their tonsils and annoids taken out at the same time, my oldest also having tubes put in his ears. Yes, both boys, both tonsils and annoids, and both at the same time & in the same hospital, one right after the other. I'm thankful my mom was there because between the time one kid got out of surgery, the other one was going in. I couldn't be with both of them at the same time. At least after the surgeries they were put in the same room. Thirty-seven years ago I had the same surgery myself. I wouldn't worry about the surgery itself. It's fairly routine now. The only exception being if there are other medical issues your nephew may have that might complicate the procedure, but I'm sure you've already covered the medical side of it. As for the rest, you can encourage him by showing confidence yourself in the doctors and nurses. You can encourage him to be brave. He'll drink a little medicine and go to sleep. He'll dream about all the wonderful things he'll enjoy when he wakes up. And then, the next thing he'll know he will wake up to unlimited jello, ice cream, and all the soft, cool goodies he can eat! Of course, you'll have a different experience. Try for his sake not to show the worry that will gnaw at you with every second that passes. Don't let him see the separation anxiety that will hit you as he is wheeled away for surgery. Have faith. Know that he is in good, capable, and loving hands. When he comes out, possibly still sleeping but definately groggy, don't get scared when he can't seem to drink much and doesn't want to eat. Encourage him to sip and the colder the better. My boys got unlimited Sprite. He might can get some Jello down, but the doctors and nurses will be there to help ease your fears as they won't let him leave the hospital until he eats well. At home, don't worry about him not wanting to eat or eating very little. My youngest didn't eat a good solid meal for two days. You might stock up on Jello, Ice Cream, Sprite, Gatorade, Pedisure (for extra nutrition and to ease those worries that come with his recovery) and be ready for that request for Micky D's Quarter Pounder Combo. He may want a big meal. Give it to him, but don't be surprised if he takes one bite and turns down the rest, saying it hurts too much. Don't fret about the amount or time (days) of pain medication you will have to give him. Chances are, like my kids, you'll have left overs. It will be tough for about a week. Have patience and no fear (at least none that he will see). Before you know it, he will be running around and eating you "out of house and home".
God bless you and be with you all,
C., "Been There, Done That"