Transform Any Blood Draw Station Into a Kid-Friendly Distraction Station

When it comes to kids, there’s no such thing as a routine blood draw. Their “pre-poke” anxiety can make a clean draw practically impossible. That’s why more facilities are employing the distraction technique to keep kids’ attention away from the needle.

All it takes is a little color and a little imagination and you can transform an ordinary blood draw station into a kid-friendly distraction station.

Basic Items to Replace That Fit Every Budget

Organizer Bins: Go Bright!
Instead of “hospital blue” choose organizer bins in a different color like purple, red, or yellow.

Tourniquets & Bandages: Distract with Patterns
Put away the boring blue and tan. Keep a variety of tourniquets, cohesive bandages, and adhesive bandages printed with kid-friendly shapes and characters. Then let them choose their favorite.

Phlebotomy Trays: A Conversation Starter
When your phlebotomy tray features happy characters, they’re a natural conversation starter and a great way to break the ice. Ask your patient which is their favorite character and let the conversation flow.

Must-Have New Item: BUZZY
Buzzy’s vibration confuses the body’s nerves and distracts attention away from the poke to create instant, all-natural pain relief.

Easy Embellishments for Instant Distraction
Snap on a little pizzazz with Pole Pals. They’re easily moved and changed out, making them the perfect accessory for phlebotomy trays and phlebotomy carts. Your regular pediatric patients will look forward to a new one with every visit.

These are just some ideas on how to transform your phlebotomy station into a fun and kid-friendly distraction station. If your budget doesn’t allow a full transformation at one time, start by replacing your everyday supplies like bandages and tourniquets, then replace other items as needed.

Have you created a distraction station? Leave a comment below.