A nurse is providing preoperative teaching for a 9-year-old child who is scheduled for a tonsillectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Indicate on a stuffed animal where the procedure will be performed: This approach is more appropriate for preschool-aged children, who learn best through play and concrete objects. School-age children benefit more from factual, age-appropriate explanations. B. Use simple diagrams to explain the procedure: School-age children can understand basic anatomy and processes. Simple diagrams provide visual reinforcement, reduce anxiety, and help the child grasp what will happen during surgery. C. Discuss the benefits of the procedure: While explaining benefits is important, focusing only on outcomes without addressing the child’s need for concrete understanding may not fully reduce preoperative anxiety. D. Provide teaching immediately before the procedure: Teaching should occur in advance to give the child time to process the information, ask questions, and mentally prepare. Immediate pre-op teaching is too rushed for effective learning.