Tips for a Less Stressful Shot Visit

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Making the choice to vaccinate your child is vital for their health and well-being. Even so, getting shots can still be stressful for you and your little one. Fortunately, there are simple ways you can support your child before, during, and after shots.

Before Getting Shots

Come prepared! Take these steps before your child gets a shot to help make the immunization visit less stressful on you both.

• Read any vaccine materials you received from your child’s health care professional and write down any questions you may have.
• Find your child’s personal immunization record and bring it to your appointment. An up-to-date record tells your doctor exactly what shots your child has already received.
• Pack a favorite toy or book, and a blanket that your child uses regularly to comfort your child.

For older children

• Be honest with your child. Explain that shots can pinch or sting, but that it won’t hurt for long.
• Engage other family members, especially older siblings, to support your child.
• Avoid telling scary stories or making threats about shots.

At the Doctor’s Office

If you have questions about immunizations, ask your child’s doctor or nurse. Before you leave the appointment, ask your child’s doctor for advice on using non-aspirin pain reliever and other steps you can take at home to comfort your child.

Try these ideas for making the shots easier on your child.

• Distract and comfort your child by cuddling, singing, or talking softly.
• Smile and make eye contact with your child. Let your child know that everything is ok.
• Comfort your child with a favorite toy or book. A blanket that smells familiar will help your child feel more comfortable.
• Hold your child firmly on your lap, whenever possible.

For older children

• Take deep breaths with your child to help "blow out" the pain.
• Point out interesting things in the room to help create distractions.
• Tell or read stories.
• Support your child if he or she cries. Never scold a child for not "being brave."

Once your child has received all of the shots, be especially supportive. Hold, cuddle, and, for infants, breastfeed or offer a bottle. A soothing voice, combined with praise and hugs will help reassure your child that everything is ok.

After the Shots

Sometimes children experience mild reactions from vaccines, such as pain at the injection site, a rash or a fever. These reactions are normal and will soon go away. The following tips will help you identify and minimize mild side effects.

• Review any information your doctor gives you about the shots, especially the Vaccine Information Statements or other sheets that outline which side effects might be expected.
• Use a cool, wet cloth to reduce redness, soreness, and swelling in the place where the shot was given.
• Reduce any fever with a cool sponge bath. If your doctor approves, give non-aspirin pain reliever.
• Give your child lots of liquid. It’s normal for some children to eat less during the 24 hours after getting vaccines.
• Pay extra attention to your child for a few days. If you see something that concerns you, call your doctor.

 

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