School age test or procedure preparation

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DURING THE PROCEDURE

If the procedure is performed at the hospital or your health care provider's office, you will most likely be able to be present. Ask your provider if you are not sure about this. If your child does not want you to be present, 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 the child allows or requests for them to be there.

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

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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 child be present during the procedure.
• Ask that anesthesia be used where appropriate to reduce the level of discomfort your child will feel.
• Ask that painful procedures not be performed in the hospital bed or room so the child does not associate pain with these areas.
• Ask if a low sensory environment can be provided.

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).