Same day surgery: a preschooler's experience.

This case study of a 4-year-old boy describes his coping behaviors during admission for myringotomy and polyethylene tube insertion as a same day surgery patient. Nursing care provided the child with the opportunity to "play out" feelings aroused by the experience as a surgical patient. The child's behavior indicated that the planned and supportive responses of the nurse caring for him promoted the child's sense of mastery and self-confidence.