Patient category | Age: | Technique | Technique | Technique | Technique | Technique |
Infants | birth to 1 y/o | Involve parents in procedures | Keep parents close to patient – in line of sight | Allow comfort items (Toys, pacifiers) | Distract with music or toys | Enlist parents’ help in holding or comforting during procedure or take breaks |
Toddler | 1-3 y/o | Explain procedures on their level | May even allow them to touch the transducer and/or gel | Engage parents in the process | Able to be distracted by video and toys more easily | Allow choices whenever possible |
Preschool | 3-5 y/o | Explain procedures on their level | May even allow them to touch the transducer and/or gel | Engage parents in the process | Able to be distracted by video and toys more easily | Allow choices whenever possible |
School age | 6-11 y/o | Explain exam and even equipment if interest is shown | Answer applicable questions when able | Give them some control | Privacy and independence | Allow choices |
Adolescence | 12-18 y/o | Explain not only what you are doing, but why | Encourage questions | Privacy | Include them in all conversations, even when answering parent questions | Give choices |
Older adults | (Not given) | Extent of care and attention required for a patient can directly relate to physical status rather than age | Involve family in care if requested by patient or if a breakdown in communication occurs | Allow as much independence as possible | Be especially aware of physiological needs (warmth, elimination and other things that make the patient comfortable) | In matters of disorientation or confusion, do not argue. Take into account limitations in hearing and speech |