For older children, research has shown that preparation may
reduce crying or resistance of the procedure. Prepared children
report less pain and show less distress. Proper preparation for
a test or procedure may reduce an older child's anxiety,
encourage cooperation, and help develop coping skills. Given the
developmental level of your child (0 - 1 year), pretest
preparation will be of little benefit, but some considerations
may ease your anxiety. Before the test, know that your child
probably will cry, and restraints may be used. The most
important way you can help your child through this procedure is
by being there and showing you care. Crying is a normal response
to the strange environment, unfamiliar people, restraints, and
separation from you. Your infant will cry more for these reasons
than because the test or procedure is uncomfortable. Knowing
this from the onset may help relieve some of your anxiety about
what to expect. Having specific information about the test may
further reduce your anxiety. For