At some point every child will undergo a medical procedure, whether it is a simple blood test or x-ray or something much more involved such setting a broken bone or having surgery. Preparing children for medical procedures ahead of time will decrease their physical and emotional pain. Whenever possible, prepare your child for medical procedures in advance before your child becomes upset and frightened.
Step 1
Talk with your child's doctor privately about the planned procedure your child will undergo. Research the procedure your child will be undergoing privately so you understand the procedure.
Step 2
Ask to remain with your child during any procedures. If you are told you cannot, ask if it is because of a policy or for reasons of medical necessity. You should not be refused except in cases of medical necessity.
Step 3
Ask your child's doctor if she has any age-appropriate teaching materials you can share with your child. You may also find teaching tools online.
Step 4
Explain the procedure in an age-appropriate way using terminology that your child will understand. Describe the sights, sounds, smells and feelings your child might experience.
Step 5
Encourage your child to ask questions. Answer your child's questions honestly but in a developmentally appropriate way.
Step 6
Help your child visualize various procedures using toy medical instruments and a doll or stuffed animal. Allow your child to perform the procedure on the doll or stuffed animal in return.
Step 7
Remind your child that you will be present during the procedure if that is the case. Substitute a comfort object, such as a stuffed animal or article of clothing if you cannot remain with your child.
Step 8
Allow your child to become familiar with the medical environment by visiting the hospital or doctor's office ahead of time whenever possible.
Step 9
Teach your child guided imagery ahead of time to help him cope with any prolonged procedures. Practice these techniques regularly.
Step 10
During the procedure, provide distraction, encouragement and comfort.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask your doctor if there are any measures that can be taken to minimize discomfort during a procedure, such as using a topical numbing agent before injections, but understand that for some procedures there are no such measures and prepare your child accordingly. The best time to ask your doctor about staying with your child during procedures is before any procedure, and especially before an emergency. If medical personnel will not allow you to remain with your child, consider choosing alternate providers. If neither you nor a comfort object will be allowed to be with your child, talk with your medical team about other options.
- Do not lie to your child and tell him a procedure will be painless when it won't; it is better to provide honest information and help him develop coping skills.
Things You'll Need
- Age-appropriate teaching materials
- Toy medical instruments
- Doll or stuffed animal
