Which information should the nurse include when preparing a 5-year-old child for a cardiac catheterization?

Which information should the nurse include when preparing a 5-year-old child for a cardiac catheterization?

a.
A detailed explanation of the procedure
b.
A description of what the child will feel and see during the procedure
c.
An explanation about the dye that will go directly into his vein
d.
An assurance to the child that he and the nurse can talk about the procedure when it is over

ANS: B

For a preschooler, the provision of sensory information about what to expect during the procedure will enhance the child’s ability to cope with the events of the procedure and will decrease anxiety. Explaining the procedure in detail is probably more than the 5-year-old child can comprehend and it will produce anxiety. Using the word “dye” with a preschooler can be frightening for the child. The child needs information before the procedure.