Reporter: Leonisa Mae M.

Iso BSN 2

ACCOMPANYING THE CHILD

Parental presence is essential when a child is undergoing a procedure because it reduces the
child’s stress. However, if the parents are unable to be present during a procedure, allow them to
remain close by, such as in a waiting room, so that they can be called once the procedure is
completed. Ideally, a nurse whom the child knows should accompany the child to the procedure and
remain with the child throughout the procedure, or at least until the child has met a primary person
who will be responsible for the procedure.
 Check for any medication or specific baseline assessment procedures such as vital signs
should be performed before leaving the unit for another department.
 If the child is an inpatient, also check that the identification band is securely in place and
readily visible despite any IV equipment.
 If there will be considerable wait in the department, ask the child if they would like to bring
along an activity such as a game or book.
 Provide adequate blankets for comfort, especially for infants.
 Always use safety precautions, such as side rails, because safety is a priority during all
procedures performed on children.

PROVIDING SUPPORT
Children do well with diagnostic and evaluative procedures as long as they have adequate support
from a familiar provider or parent with them. Try to provide support both verbally and nonverbally.