Which option describes signs of procedure-related anxiety?

• A. Eating more
• B. Crying and resistance
• C. Sleeping calmly
• D. Laughter during procedure

Answer: (B)

Crying and resistance capture how a child emotionally and behaviorally reacts to a feared procedure. When anxiety is present, a child often vocalizes distress and cannot stay still or cooperative, clinging to a caregiver, pulling away, or bracing against the procedure. These observable reactions are the clearest indicators of procedure-related anxiety, which is why this option fits best.

Eating more isn’t a typical anxiety sign during procedures and might reflect hunger or comfort-seeking rather than fear. Sleeping calmly during a procedure suggests relaxation or sedation, not anxiety. Laughter during a procedure can be a coping mechanism or a nervous response, but it doesn’t consistently signal anxiety in the same direct way as crying and resistance.