Gather information. Know why your child needs a procedure, how the procedure may feel, and how long it will last. Consider being with your child during the procedure.
Be honest and sensitive. Explain to your child why the procedure is needed and what to expect to feel, see, and hear. Be honest with your child about what may hurt and what will not hurt, but try to avoid creating extra concern.
Encourage curiosity and exploration. Help your child become familiar with the health care facility and the equipment that will be used.
Reassure your child. Make sure your child knows that the hospital, doctor's office, or clinic is not a punishment and it is not necessarily a place where children will experience pain.
Use simple language. When describing a medical procedure, try to avoid words that have double meanings or are threatening. Use the words:
Injection instead of shot,
Bed on wheels... instead of stretcher,
Numb or make sleepy... instead of deaden.
Listen to your child's concerns. Let your child know that it is OK to ask questions, cry and talk about feelings.
Give your child choices. Let your child decide which finger gets stuck with a needle or whether to sit on the examining table or a parent's lap for an injection. Allowing your child to take a more active role in a procedure can help lessen anxiety and pain related to procedures.
Help your child manage pain. Coping strategies may help your child reduce anxiety and pain.
Teach your child deep, steady breathing.
Let your child squeeze your hand and say, "Ouch!" or "That hurt!"
Distract your child with pleasant activities, such as books, songs, bubbles, video games, or music.
Ask your child's doctor whether a topical medication to numb the skin can be used to lessen the pain of needle sticks.
Comfort your child. Hold or rock your child if possible. Remember, speaking or singing softly to your child and stroking or holding your child's hand also provides comfort. A favorite toy or blanket from home may help your child feel secure.
When appropriate, encourage play. Playing with puppets, making pictures, or telling stories (before and after a doctor's visit) can help your child express feelings and concerns. A play "medical kit" may also be helpful.
