Preparing a child for surgery is one of the most challenging responsibilities faced by pediatric surgical teams. Over the years, researchers and clinicians have extensively studied the need for structured preparation programs to reduce the anxiety and stress experienced by children and their families during hospitalization. Such programs are essential not only for easing preoperative distress but also for promoting positive coping strategies that support postoperative recovery.
A key focus of presurgical preparation is recognizing how children’s cognitive and emotional capacities evolve with age, and tailoring interventions to be developmentally appropriate and family-centered. Effective preparation for both the child and the parents plays a significant role in minimizing psychological burden and improving postoperative outcomes. Children undergoing surgery are generally grouped into…
