Adolescent test or procedure preparation

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Adolescent control test

Proper preparations for a test or procedure can reduce an adolescent's anxiety, encourage cooperation, and help the adolescent develop coping skills.

Test/procedure preparation - adolescent; Preparing adolescent for test/procedure

There are a number of ways to help an adolescent prepare for a medical test or procedure.

First, provide detailed information and explain reasons for the procedure. Let your adolescent participate in making as many decisions as possible.

PREPARING BEFORE THE PROCEDURE

Explain the procedure in correct medical terms, and tell your adolescent why the test is being done. (Ask your provider to explain if you are not sure.) Understanding the need for the procedure may reduce your adolescent's anxiety.

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To the best of your ability, describe how the test will feel. Allow your adolescent to practice the positions or movements that will be required for the particular test, such as the fetal position for a lumbar puncture.

Be honest about discomfort that may be felt, but don't dwell on the topic. It may help to stress the benefits of the procedure, and that you will have more information when the results are in. Talk about things that the adolescent may find pleasurable after the test, such as feeling better or going home. Rewards, such as shopping trips or movies, may be helpful if the adolescent is able to enjoy them.

To the best of your ability, tell your adolescent how the equipment works in literal terms. If the procedure takes place in an unfamiliar location, your adolescent may benefit from a tour of the facility beforehand.

Suggest ways for the adolescent to stay calm:

• Counting
• Creating an environment with low sensory stimulation
• Blowing bubbles
• Deep breathing
• Guided imagery
• Hand-held video games
• Holding the hand of a calm parent (or someone else) during the procedure
• Relaxation (thinking pleasant thoughts)
• Other distractions

When possible, let your adolescent make some decisions, such as the time of day or the date the procedure is performed. The more control a person feels over a procedure, the less painful and anxiety-producing it is likely to be.