What action should a nurse take when inserting an IV catheter for a 7-year-old child?

When inserting an IV catheter in a 7-year-old child, it is important for the nurse to provide honest and age-appropriate information about the procedure. Telling the child they will feel discomfort during the catheter insertion prepares them for what to expect. This approach fosters trust and helps the child to mentally prepare for any sensations they might experience, which can ultimately reduce anxiety.

Being honest about the discomfort means the child is not misled about the procedure; this is crucial in pediatric care, where establishing trust and a sense of safety is particularly important. It allows the child to brace themselves for the experience without raising their anxiety levels with false assurances.

While distraction techniques or asking the child to focus on counting can also be effective strategies to reduce anxiety, the first step must be honest communication about the procedure and its potential discomfort. This sets a professional tone and helps integrate patient education into the care process.