The nurse is developing a plan of care for a 10-year-old who is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. Which intervention should the nurse implement to prepare the child for the procedure?

• A. Reassure the parents that 10-year-olds are cooperative and are less likely to be anxious.
• B. Obtain a video film of a cardiac catheterization to show to the child prior to the procedure.
• C. Have another child the same age explain the procedure in 'child' language.
• D. Ask the parents to explain the procedure to influence the child's behavior.

Answer: (B)

Preparing a school-age child for a procedure is most effective when education is concrete, visual, and interactive. A video demonstration of a cardiac catheterization gives the child a clear, non-threatening look at what will happen, the equipment involved, and the sequence of events. This helps the child form accurate mental pictures, ask questions, and practice what to expect, which reduces fear and improves cooperation during the actual procedure. It aligns with the child’s developmental needs (concrete thinking and learning best from visuals) and supports both the child and family in preparing together.

reassurances to parents that a 10-year-old will be cooperative underestimate the child’s natural anxiety and misses an opportunity for preparation. Having another child explain in child language risks inaccuracies and pressure, and asking parents to be the sole explainer places the burden on them without directly equipping the child with understanding.