Few kids are fans of getting poked with needles. Some would probably rather check their own closet for monsters at bedtime while eating Brussels sprouts and listening to talk radio.
Blood draws just aren’t that much fun, but that doesn’t mean they have to be frightening. Creating a cheerful environment in which children feel safe can help ease anxiety and build trust in healthcare professionals for years to come.
Here are four ways to comfort pediatric patients during blood draws.
Give them their own special chair: A standard phlebotomy chair is an unfamiliar and perhaps intimidating sight for many children. Help them pretend they’re brave firefighters and extinguish their fears! Blood draw stations designed to look like fire engines and buses can impart a sense of ownership. Their imaginary Dalmatian can even ride alongside.
Use kid-friendly equipment and supplies: When kids aren’t sure what to expect, an environment filled with happy faces and fun splashes of color could help relax them. Think beyond wall art and use warmer, more playful blood draw essentials. CoFlex® bandages with fun patterns (cars, hearts, dinosaurs!) or simple smiley faces are a thoughtful touch. Or go a step further and transform your cart into a customizable fantasyland on wheels.
Provide physical and visual distractions: Lots of little ones are keenly aware of the uncomfortable poke that awaits them, and no amount of pretty pink ponies will change their attitude. For them, it might be wise to bust out the big bee. Buzzy® is a revolutionary needle pain management solution that uses vibration and ice wings to distract nerves. Pair it with DistrACTION™ age-specific question and task cards to create the ultimate diversion!
Offer them a reward: The promise of even the smallest, most inexpensive tokens can make children feel better about their blood draws. Award stickers can give them a sense of accomplishment and make them feel special. Keep a wide variety on hand so they have a choice. Award sticker organizers and dispensers are a convenient, fun way to keep your stickers together and offer multiple options.
Thanks for reading! Got methods of your own or questions on any of our kid-comforting strategies? Please leave them in the comment box below!