b. Child 1 Year to 3 Years of Age.
(1) This child is very dependent on his mother. DO NOT separate the child
from his parent if at all possible.
(2)
Allow the child to cry.
(3) Explain the procedures you will do to the child. Explain in very simple
terms that he can understand.
(4) Do not overload the child with an explanation of events that will occur in
the future. These events may be outside his sense of time and serve only to frighten
him.
c. The Preschooler: The 3 to 5 Year Old.
(1) This child lives in a world of many fears: fear of monsters, fear of
aggression, fear of retribution, and so forth.
(2)
The child has some awareness and fear of death.
(3)
This is the age when a child most fears the mutilation of his body.
(4) The preschooler tends to view illness and injury as punishment for his
own aggressive feelings.
(5) He may have already developed the concept that medical personnel are
associated with a variety of unpleasant experiences.
(6)
Be very tactful and patient with children in this age range.
(7) Cover bleeding injuries rapidly after assuring this child that none of his
limbs or vital components is missing.
(8) Explain what you are doing. Reassure the child frequently that
everything is all right.
(9)
If possible, allow the child to bring one of his cherished belongings with
him.
(10) Tell the child what he can expect at the hospital, but do not overwhelm
him.
(11) Reassure the preschooler that it is all right to cry or complain.
MD0584
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