Tips from researchers on handling childhood immunizations
In the May edition of Pediatrics, researchers make a series of recommendations about how parents, doctors and nurses can ease the fear and pain surrounding childhood immunizations.
Here are some of their recommendations:
Before the injection:
--While details should be guided by each child's age and development level, researchers found children over the age of 2 benefit when told what will happen and how it will feel. Children can also be asked to help think of things that will help them cope, such as bringing along a favorite toy.
Researchers suggest the discussions occur as close to the actual injection as possible for toddlers and preschool-aged children to avoid escalating anxiety. For older children, parents need to consider how each child handles stress.
During the injection:
--Parents should adopt a calm and matter-of-fact manner, because research indicates adults who are overapologetic, too reassuring, extremely empathetic or critical of their child's behavior can cause more distress.
To distract the child, researchers suggested using humor, toys, books, storytelling or deep breathing. For babies under the age of six months, a pacifier dipped in sugar water was recommended.
For children who are especially anxious, doctors should at least consider using a local anesthetic, researchers said.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
