A nurse is preparing to obtain a blood specimen from a preschooler. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform?

Rationale: A. Collect 4 mL/kg of blood in a 24-hr period: This volume exceeds safe limits for blood collection in small children. The guideline is not to exceed 3 mL/kg over 24 hours unless clinically necessary, as excessive draws can lead to anemia or hemodynamic instability. B. Apply lidocaine cream 30 min prior to collecting the specimen: While lidocaine-prilocaine cream can be helpful, it typically requires at least 60 minutes to achieve adequate dermal analgesia. Applying it for only 30 minutes may not be sufficient to reduce pain effectively. C. Ask the parents to leave the room prior to collecting the blood specimen: Parents are often a source of comfort and reassurance for preschoolers. Unless their presence is disruptive, involving them in the process can help calm the child and improve cooperation. D. Demonstrate the use of the equipment to the child: Preschoolers benefit from age-appropriate explanations and demonstrations. Showing them the equipment reduces fear and anxiety by promoting familiarity and a sense of control in an unfamiliar situation.