On this week’s Parenting segment, one young child is terrified about an upcoming non-life-threatening operation.
“My son who is 9 has developed a bump on his arm,” the parent told Moncrieff.
“We went to the doctor to get it checked out and after a few tests thank God, there’s nothing serious there.
“However, we do have to get the lump removed my son will have to get an operation in a few weeks.
“When I told him about this, he got quite worried - Would you have any recommendations on how to calm him down in relation to this?
“I don’t want him to have a fear of going to the hospital and I don’t know where this is coming from.”
Child psychotherapist Joanna Fortune said there definitely is “context” for why the son is so worried about the operation.
“Yes, thank goodness there’s nothing serious there [but] you were all a bit worried,” she said.
“And I think for any of us, no matter how old you are, if you’re suddenly told you’re going to hospital and having an operation of any kind, it’s very natural to feel [nervous].
“That is a big deal for him and a big experience, for all of you.
“I know it’s reassuring to know there’s nothing major there, but it’s still significant.”
Joanna recommended getting in touch with Children’s Hospital Ireland (CHI) and using its online resources about preparing for surgery.
She said these resources are “incredibly detailed”, explaining everything from what you need to bring with you to recovering from the operation.
“When you're stressed about going into hospital, it’s very nice to have a guide,” she said.
Preparing for operation
Joanna also recommended reaching out to the hospital the son will attend for his operation to get a special play therapist.
“They do a very particular type of therapeutic play that is around supporting children to overcome anxiety around hospital procedures,” she said.
“There aren’t nearly enough of them... but it is worth it, given that he is expressing worry about surgery.”
While they prepare to go to hospital, the parents can also use some light play therapy themselves by using toys to explain how the operation and hospital visit will work.
They can also “role-play” as a doctor to allow the son to ask as many questions as possible.
Listen back here:
