Adolescent test or procedure preparation

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Adolescent control test

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Allow your adolescent to participate in simple tasks. Encourage participation during the procedure, such as holding an instrument, if allowed.

Discuss potential risks. Adolescents commonly have elevated concerns about risks, particularly about any effects on appearance, mental function, and sexuality. Address these fears honestly and openly if at all possible. Provide information about any appearance changes or other possible side effects that may result from the test.

Older adolescents may benefit from videos that demonstrate adolescents of the same age explaining and undergoing the procedure. Ask your health care provider if such films are available for your adolescent's viewing. It may also be helpful for your adolescent to discuss any concerns with peers who have successfully managed similar stressful situations. Ask your health care provider if they know any teens who are interested in peer counseling or if they can recommend a local support group.

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DURING THE PROCEDURE

If the procedure is done at the hospital or your health care provider's office, ask if you can stay with your adolescent. However, if your adolescent does not want you to be there, it is best to honor this wish. Out of respect for your adolescent's growing need for privacy and independence, do not allow peers or siblings to view the procedure unless the adolescent asks them to be present.

Avoid showing your anxiety. This will make your adolescent more upset and anxious. Research has suggested that children are more cooperative if their parents have taken measures (such as anxiety reducing acupuncture) to reduce their own anxiety.

Other considerations:

• Ask your health care provider to limit the number of strangers entering and leaving the room during the procedure, because this can raise anxiety.
• Ask that the provider who has spent the most time with your adolescent be present during the procedure, if possible.
• Your adolescent may have difficulty with a new authority figure entering the situation. This complication can be reduced if someone he or she knows performs the test. Otherwise, your adolescent may show some resistance. Prepare the adolescent in advance for the possibility that the test will be done by someone unfamiliar.
• Ask that anesthesia be used (as appropriate) to reduce any discomfort for your adolescent.
• Assure your adolescent that his or her reactions are normal.

Review Date: 04/19/2010
Reviewed By: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).