Preparing children for endoscopy and manometry.

Properly preparing children for endoscopy and manometry contributes to the child's ability to cope and to the nurse's efficiency and effectiveness. Therapeutic play has been documented as the ideal way to prepare children for procedures. Because of time limitations, therapeutic play is not always an alternative in the endoscopy unit. Knowledge of the different developmental stages of childhood is helpful in preparing children for procedures. The nurse's approach and preparation of the child are based on her assessment of the child's developmental age, cognitive level, past experiences and coping skills. Using her assessment of the child, the nurse establishes trust with the child and the parent prior to beginning preparation of the child. A brief overview of the abilities and needs of the infant, toddler, preschooler and school age child is presented. Suggestions are made for nursing intervention before and during the endoscopic procedure or esophageal manometry.