Helping your young child prepare for a medical test or procedure
can reduce anxiety, increase cooperation, and help the child
develop coping skills. Proper preparation for a test or
procedure can minimize anxiety, increase cooperation, and help a
child cope. Before the test, know that your child probably will
cry. Preparation may not change the fact that your child will
feel some discomfort or pain. Try using play to demonstrate what
will happen during the test. You may be able to uncover your
child's concerns. The most important way you can help children
is by preparing them and providing support at the time of the
procedure. PREPARING BEFORE THE PROCEDURE Limit your
explanations about the procedure to 5 or 10 minutes, because
toddlers have a short attention span. Any preparation should
take place directly before the test or procedure. Some general
guidelines for preparing your child for a test or procedure
include the following: - Explain the procedure in language your
child understands, using plain words.