Clincial Tip: To calm anxiety, play the physical exam by ear
July 1, 2006
Before approaching an anxious preschool or early school-age child to perform a physical examination, I tell the child that I need help because sometimes I forget where to listen with the stethoscope. I ask the child if he (she) knows where to listen. Most children reply that they don't know. I "listen" to the foot and ask if that's the right place. A subtle negative shake of the head is the usual response. Then I "listen" to the middle of the forehead, which usually makes the child laugh. After that, the child generally points to the chest or belly and happily cooperates with the examination.
