Final answer:
The best way to prepare a preschool-age child for a painful procedure is by using play to demonstrate the procedure, along with allowing the child to touch and explore the equipment, and involving parents for emotional support.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prepare a preschool-age child for a potentially painful procedure, it is best to use play to demonstrate the procedure to the child. This approach aligns with the cognitive and developmental stage of preschool children, who often use play as a way to understand and process the world around them. By inviting the child to touch and explore the equipment first, you can reduce fear of the unknown and provide a controlled environment where the child can become familiar with what will happen. Moreover, by using play, the nurse can demonstrate the procedure in a non-threatening way, making it easier for the child to cope with the actual event. It is important, though, that this be combined with simple, honest explanations that respect the child's developmental level. Ensuring that parents are involved according to the child's comfort can also provide additional emotional support and security.