Be alert for children who appear more comfortable with male or female nurses, and attempt to accommodate them.
Encourage parental involvement in care.
Plan for playtime and offer a variety of materials from which to choose.
Offer medical equipment for play to lessen anxiety about strange objects.
Assess children’s concerns as expressed through their drawings.
Accept the child’s choices and expressions of feelings. Offer explanations about all procedures and treatments. Clearly explain that the child is not responsible for causing the illness.