Ways to overcome the fear of injections in children
If you are naughty, I say, Mr. Doctor, give you an injection! This is a repetitive and clichéd sentence of parents for their little children’s mischievous time. Many of us frighten our child with injections to calm him down, unaware that there comes a time when we need to reconcile him with this treatment.
Relieve children’s fear of injections
Before taking your child to treatment facilities such as a hospital or clinic or injection room, it is a good idea to clarify things for your child.
Vaccination helps protect your baby from a variety of illnesses, but it certainly hurts. Not surprisingly, most children are afraid of injections, but in most cases they have to. In fact, many children will get more than 20 vaccines by the age of four. It is a good idea to get acquainted with some of the tips that can reduce this fear in your child.
Tell the truth
If your child asks, “Are we going to inject?” Do not dodge or deny. Reassure him that the vaccine is supposed to protect him from illness and explain that this is not a form of punishment. Also, you should not tell him that the injection does not hurt because then the child will understand that you are lying to him and will lose his trust in you. Instead, simply say, “Yes, it hurts, but only for a few seconds.” But explain all this to him happily and with a smile.
Do not reveal details
It is best not to tell your child too many details about how to inject. If you say everything too soon, you will ruin him all week and he will be worried until the meeting. Instead, do not explain the injection until you have asked. If he asked and you knew he was not going to have an injection at this appointment, you should explain. But if you do not know, it is better to say that it is possible that you may need an injection, but it is not clear. Here the ambiguity of the answer is better. If you talk too much about injections and vaccines, you will make him anxious.
Prevent physical pain
Some experts recommend using an anesthetic cream about 20 minutes before the injection to numb the skin. During the vaccination, try to distract the child, hold his or her hand, make a smile, tell a joke or story, or read him or her a favorite poem.
Know the time of intervention
If your child has seizures , it is best to stand back and let the doctor and nurse intervene. Some children sometimes overreact when they see their parents’ attention. If your child is having a bitter time, it is best to leave the room or stand in a corner and make eye contact with the child so that he or she can receive your support.
Provide immediate relief
Sit the baby on your feet for a few minutes after vaccination to make sure he is not dizzy. Then rub the injection site to reduce the pain. You can use an ice pack for 10 minutes.
Do not forget the prize
Sometimes even a small motivation can help reduce pain. Your special attitude towards the courageous and positive work he has done can pave the way for future appointments and vaccinations. Just invite him to an ice cream parlor or park.
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