Several blood tests are ordered for a preschool child with severe anemia.She is crying and upset because she remembers the venipuncture done at the clinic 2 days ago.What should the nurse explain to the child?
A) Venipuncture discomfort is very brief.
B) Only one venipuncture will be needed.
C) Topical application of local anaesthetic can eliminate venipuncture pain.
D) Most blood tests on children require only a finger puncture because a small amount of blood is needed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Preschool children are very concerned about both pain and loss of blood.When preparing the child for venipuncture,a topical anaesthetic (e.g. ,EMLA)should be used to eliminate any pain and a bandage should be applied afterward.This is a traumatic experience for preschool children because they are concerned about their bodily integrity.The nurse should not promise that only one venipuncture will be needed,in case multiple attempts are required.Both finger punctures and venipunctures are traumatic for children,so both require preparation.

Several Blood Tests Are Ordered for a Preschool Child with Severe