Medical Health Encyclopedia

Adolescent test or procedure preparation

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

Allow your child to participate in simple tasks. Encourage participation during the procedure, such as holding an instrument, if allowed. Let your child hold your hand (or the hand of someone else in the room) for comfort, as it can actually reduce pain by reducing anxiety and providing distraction.

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.

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Older children may benefit from videos that demonstrate children of the same age explaining and undergoing the procedure. Ask your health care provider if such films are available for your child's viewing.

DURING THE PROCEDURE:

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

Other considerations:

• Ask your health care provider to limit the number of strangers entering and leaving the room during the procedure, since this can raise anxiety.
• Ask that the provider who has spent the most time with your child be present during the procedure, if possible.
• Your adolescent may have difficulty with a new authority figure entering the situation. This complication can be minimized if a familiar provider performs the test. Otherwise, your child may offer some resistance to the procedure. Prepare the child in advance for the possibility that the test will be performed by someone unfamiliar, if this is likely to happen.
• Ask that anesthesia be used as appropriate to reduce the level of discomfort for your child.