A nurse is preparing a 4-year-old child for a tonsillectomy. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A. "You will have a special sleep so you won't feel anything.": Preschool-age children benefit from simple, nonthreatening explanations that use familiar language. Referring to anesthesia as a “special sleep” helps reduce fear and avoids concrete or frightening details that could increase anxiety at this developmental stage. B. "Your mom will be there throughout the procedure.": Parents are usually not present during the surgical procedure itself. Providing inaccurate information can increase distress and reduce trust when the child realizes the statement is untrue. C. "Your throat will feel better when you wake up.": After a tonsillectomy, throat pain is expected and can be significant. Suggesting the throat will feel better immediately may create unrealistic expectations and increase anxiety or confusion postoperatively. D. "You will be put to sleep for your surgery.": Phrases like “put to sleep” can be misinterpreted by young children and may be associated with fear of not waking up. Using gentler, developmentally appropriate wording helps promote understanding and emotional comfort.