What does the preparation for the examination look like?

The child should be prepared for the examination depending on the child's age and ability to understand.

For early preschool children, the presence and support of the parent/guardian during the examination is most important because it gives them a sense of security and protection. If the child is upset, their toy or any other object that otherwise helps the child reduce anxiety can help them. The parent/guardian of a young child assists the doctor during the examination by holding the child on the examination table or on their lap.

Early preschool children should be told that they are going to see a doctor as soon as possible before the examination. They should also be told that the parent/guardian will be with them throughout the examination, where they will agree with the doctor how to help them solve the problem they have.

Preschool children should be told why they are going to the doctor (e.g. because of swelling in the groin area), that the parent/guardian will first talk to the doctor, that the doctor will then examine them and that the parent/guardian will be with the child the entire time.

Younger school-age children can be told more details about the examination. In addition to the reason for going to the doctor, the way in which the doctor will examine him can be described: in a standing position (e.g. inguinal hernia), lying down (e.g. inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, undescended testicle, phimosis) or sitting position (e.g. changes in the soft tissues of the upper limbs, upper torso).

Older school-age children and adolescents should be involved in communication with the doctor during the examination.