Which of the following would be an appropriate emotional support technique for a school-age child prior to a lumbar puncture?

Using a toy to demonstrate the procedure is an effective emotional support technique for a school-age child before a lumbar puncture. This approach helps to demystify the procedure, making it less intimidating for the child. By using a toy, the healthcare provider can visually illustrate what will happen during the procedure, breaking down each step in an understandable way. This not only heightens the child's understanding but also alleviates anxiety, as they can see that the process isn’t scary and understand that it’s being done in a controlled, safe manner. Furthermore, children in this age group often learn best through play and concrete examples, making this technique particularly suitable.

In contrast, providing lengthy medical explanations may overwhelm the child and lead to increased anxiety rather than reassurance. Ignoring the child's questions can leave them feeling confused and unsupported, which could exacerbate fear or stress about the procedure. Additionally, minimizing parental involvement could remove a critical support system that the child might rely on for comfort and reassurance. Engaging parents in the process can provide additional emotional support and helps the child feel more secure.