Nervous Paeds

• What is the purpose of a 'welcome appointment' for a nervous child patient?

  To acclimatize the child to the clinic
• How should a dental professional communicate with a nervous child and their parent?

  Be open and friendly to both parties
• What atmosphere should be maintained during the appointment with a nervous child?

  A calm and relaxed atmosphere
• What is a simple exercise to gain a child's trust?

  Playing a game of catch
• What should a child know about stopping treatment during their appointment?

  They can raise their hand to stop
• How can a child feel in control of their appointment?

  By allowing them to feel in control
• What type of language should be used when explaining treatment to a child?

  Age-appropriate and simple language
• What type of words should be avoided when talking to a nervous child?

  'Scary words' like needle and pain
• What technique can be used to explain treatment to a child?

  The tell-show-do technique
• How can a parent be involved in gaining a child's trust?

  Using the parent as a model for demonstration
• What can be used to praise a child's good cooperation?

  Stickers and words of affirmation
• How should a dental professional respond to a child's bad behavior?

  Do not tell the patient off
• What approach should be followed for systematic desensitization?

  Gain trust and leave invasive treatment last
• What should be discovered about the patient to build rapport?

  Their interests and favorite things
• How can a dental professional relate to a child in future appointments?

  Research their interests and relate
• What should be set for the patient in the appointment?

  Targets and aims for treatment
• How should a dental professional reassure a nervous child?

  By not forcing them during treatment
• What should a child be told about stopping treatment?

  They can stop at any time by raising their hand
• What activity can help build rapport with a nervous child?

  Playing simple games like catch
• What are the key non-pharmacological techniques to help a nervous child accept treatment?

  • Welcome appointment with no treatment
  • Open and friendly communication
  • Calm and relaxed atmosphere
  • Trust-building exercises (e.g., games)
  • Allowing control over the appointment
  • Age-appropriate language
  • Avoiding scary words
  • Tell-show-do technique
  • Parent involvement for trust
  • Praise with stickers/affirmations
  • No reprimanding for bad behavior
  • Systematic desensitization approach
  • Discovering patient interests
  • Setting targets for treatment
  • Reassurance without force
• How does acclimatization help a nervous child in a dental setting?

  • Familiarizes the child with the environment
  • Reduces anxiety about treatment
  • Builds trust with dental staff
  • Encourages positive associations with the clinic