Originally published May 29, 2020
Updated January 15, 2021

Preparing your child for COVID-19 testing: What to expect when coming to CHoR

At CHoR, safety comes first. As we continue caring for kids and families throughout the pandemic, we’re taking some specific health and safety measures including increased testing for COVID-19.

Patients will be tested before surgeries, procedures and hospital admissions. Because data has shown that kids can be asymptomatic, this testing will help ensure that we’re appropriately caring for each child’s medical needs while keeping everyone safe using the right protective gear, like gowns, gloves and masks.

We're also offering drive-thru COVID testing for children of all ages who have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms.

It may be helpful to prepare your child for what to expect during the test before arriving.

• Review our resources for talking with kids about COVID-19 and helping them with anxiety they may have related to the pandemic.
• Provide honest and age-appropriate explanations of what to expect during the test. For example:
  • If you're coming into the clinic: We’ll stop by a clinic in the Children’s Pavilion for a test. You’ll sit on the exam table, just like you do for doctor’s appointments. I can even sit right next to you if you’d like.
  • If you're doing drive-thru testing: We'll drive up and someone will walk up to our car. You won't even have to get out of your seat! I can hold your hand if you want me to.
  • You will see people wearing gowns, gloves and masks. They’re doing this to keep everyone safe by not spreading germs.
  • One of these people will put a long, skinny Q-tip in your nose and twirl it around in circles. This may feel a little uncomfortable, but it will only take a minute and then you’ll be done!
  • It is important to be really still when they do this – you can even pretend to be frozen like a statue!
  • A doctor will then use this Q-tip to find out more information about your body and how they can best keep you healthy and safe.
• Allow your child to ask questions and talk about ways you can help make the process more comforting. Give them some options, such as what they would like to bring with them (a favorite blanket, stuffed animal or toy) or what they could do afterward (have a snack or play a game on an electronic device).
• Think of some other ways you might be able to help calm their nerves if needed, such as breathing exercises, counting or playing a favorite song during the test.
• Remind your child that you’ll be right there with them!

Find more information, videos and family resources related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).