Final answer:
The best approach to meet Joey's age-specific preoperative needs is to allow him to engage with the oxygen mask and the transport process, as these are tangible experiences appropriate for a child in the preoperational cognitive stage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Joey, a 4-year-old scheduled for surgery, has specific developmental needs that should be considered during preoperative teaching. According to Piaget's theory of cognitive development, Joey is in the preoperational stage, a period from approximately 2 to 7 years old when children learn to use symbols and language but do not yet understand mental operations or logic in an adult way. Given Joey's cognitive stage, the perioperative nurse should consider allowing him to handle the oxygen mask and ride in the car or wagon, which are tangible experiences that he can understand and may reduce his anxiety. This approach aligns with Joey's developmental stage, as hands-on opportunities support his learning and provide a sense of control and familiarity in an unfamiliar and potentially scary environment.
While allowing Joey's parent or caregiver to explain what will happen is helpful, Joey's age and cognitive abilities mean that he will benefit more from tactile and visually engaging experiences. Privacy is also important, but it may not be as pertinent to addressing Joey's immediate preoperative needs as other strategies. Giving Joey a thorough explanation of the entire process might be too complex for his developmental level, and thus, not the most effective approach for his preoperative preparation.
It is vital for all perioperative staff to be aware of the age-specific needs of their pediatric patients to ensure a safe and less stressful surgical experience. This includes confirmation of the surgical site, procedure, understanding any known allergies, as well as ensuring the proper functioning of necessary equipment like the pulse oximeter.