I have an 8 year old foster boy that went through the surgery yesterday, and he had a rough go.  Before taking him, he was malnourished and not taken care of well at other homes.  He woke up and the pain was severe.  it subsided and was able to tolerate cold liquids/ice/popsicles.  He is home and doctor recommended monitoring his temp frequently and also liquids every 3 hours with pedialyte to assist with his growth (he looks more like 4 or 5).  With tha abuse he received before us, he did not allow us to take a normal temperature, and rectal was NOT an option.  Wife is a nurse and tried a toddler pacifier with a temp monitor.  Believe it or not it works!  He also finds the little time sucking on the pacifier soothing on the pain.  We discourage use of the pacifier only as needed (for temp monitoring) and encourage cold liquids.  Anyone else have other advice?  Yes pain meds are given, but is not tolerated since he has severe pain swallowing.