Final Answer:
The priority intervention is using EMLA at the lumbar puncture site. Thus, the correct answer is A) Using EMLA at the lumbar puncture site.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario of an 8-year-old girl preparing for tests including a lumbar puncture before starting chemotherapy, the priority intervention is to use EMLA (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics) at the lumbar puncture site. This intervention involves applying a topical anesthetic cream to numb the skin, reducing the discomfort and pain associated with the procedure.
Lumbar punctures can be distressing and painful for patients, especially children, and using EMLA can significantly alleviate their discomfort. Minimizing the physical discomfort during the procedure is crucial to ensure the patient's cooperation and reduce anxiety, contributing to a more successful and less traumatic experience.
While educating the child and family about testing procedures (Option B) and informing the family about chemotherapy and its side effects (Option D) are essential aspects of care, the immediate priority lies in mitigating the potential pain and distress associated with the invasive procedure, which is accomplished by using EMLA at the lumbar puncture site.
Administering promethazine for nausea (Option C) is important but can be addressed after the priority intervention of applying EMLA to ensure the patient's comfort during the procedure. Prioritizing the use of EMLA aligns with providing patient-centered care, aiming to minimize discomfort and promote a positive experience for the child undergoing medical procedures.
Thus, the correct answer is A) Using EMLA at the lumbar puncture site.