Preparation of children for surgery and invasive procedures: milestones on the way to success.

The cost of a preparation program is relatively low, but its value for the subject undergoing treatment is very high. Feelings of satisfaction and contentment usually accompany the preparation process, and are mutual. Therefore, it is highly recommended to make the necessary efforts to develop preparation programs and to implement them regularly and systematically. It is probable that a preparation program that allows for the special characteristics of each child and family, that is accompanied by diverse demonstration aids, and that stresses a love for children and counseling, as well as cooperation between all the agents involved ... should in most cases be a successful one.