What is a general guideline when assessing a 2-year-old child with abdominal pain and adequate perfusion?

When assessing a 2-year-old child with abdominal pain, it is generally recommended to examine the child in the parent's arms because this approach helps to promote a sense of security and comfort for the child. At this age, children are often anxious or fearful, especially in a medical setting, and having a parent nearby can significantly ease this anxiety. By keeping the child in the parent’s arms, the provider can gain the child's trust and cooperation, which is crucial for a thorough examination.

This method also allows for a more in-depth assessment without causing undue stress or discomfort to the child. When children are comfortable, they are more likely to allow the healthcare provider to perform necessary examinations and may even provide additional information about their symptoms (e.g., pointing to or indicating where the pain is).

In contrast, placing the child supine could increase their anxiety and make them less compliant during the exam. Palpating the painful area first may lead to further distress and make the child uncooperative, potentially skewing the assessment. Separating the child from the parent could exacerbate feelings of fear and lead to a poor examination outcome, as young children often require a support figure to feel safe in unfamiliar situations. Therefore, conducting the examination while the child is in the