World Immunization Week

World Immunization Week is celebrated annually during the last week of April to promote the use of vaccines and protect people of all ages from disease. Vaccines work with the body’s natural defenses to safely create immunity to pneumonia, meningitis, measles, and many other diseases. Getting vaccinated isn’t fun for anyone, but it’s especially hard on children who are afraid of needles. Keep reading below for some simple tips to make immunizations easier for them. 

Instructions for parents

Before the appointment, encourage parents to talk with their children about what will happen, what to expect, and how it will feel. They can do this the day before for school-age children, but they should wait until you get to the clinic for toddlers and preschoolers. Ask them to dress the child for the vaccination as well. Infants and children who are less than 3 years old should wear clothes that are easy to remove because they will receive the injections in their thighs. Older children should wear short-sleeved shirts to provide easy access to their upper arms. Finally, parents should bring comforting items like a favorite book or stuffed animal to the appointment. 

Role play 

Role play can be a great way for small children to prepare for check-ups and vaccinations. A toy medical kit allows them to pretend to be the doctor or nurse. Allow them to explore the play stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, thermometer and syringe. They can take your temperature and blood pressure and even pretend to give you an injection. As a result they will have less fear of the unknown and they will feel more in control during the procedure. 

Position

While older children can choose to be seated or lying down for vaccinations, small children should be held by their parents or caregivers. Comfort holds can help reduce their stress and prevent them from moving when the injection is given. Kindergarteners can sit upright in the parent’s lap for shots in their arms while toddlers should lay across their lap to receive shots in their thighs. Infants do best when they are wrapped tightly in a blanket with one leg left out for the injection. 

Using distractions

Not surprisingly, children who are calm right before vaccination do significantly better during the injection and immediately afterward. One of the easiest ways to reduce their anxiety is with a favorite activity or video game. Parents know that it can be very difficult to get a child’s attention when they are deeply focused on a game, and this can be beneficial for vaccinations. Children of all ages can use a phone or tablets to play games and listen to music during the injection. You can also ask them to count to 10, squeeze a ball or wiggle their toes or fingers. Older children can be encouraged to take slow, deep breaths while younger children blow bubbles or into a pinwheel. If possible, allow infants to breastfeed during the injection as the close contact and sweet breast milk can significantly reduce their discomfort. 

Praise

When vaccination shots are done, children need praise and positive reinforcement. Encourage the parents to calm the younger children with hugs, cuddles and soft whispers. Older children should be given a few moments to gather themselves. Let them know how well they did during the shot to set them up for success with their next vaccinations. The sting of getting the injection can also be lessened with a fun character bandage and a sticker afterward. 

Final thoughts

While getting immunized is never easy for children, the steps listed above can help them feel more comfortable throughout the process. To help students learn how to administer vaccinations, DiaMedical USA has simulated vaccines for Hepatitis B, Influenza, and Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR). DiaMedical USA also has cost-effective injection trainers that allow students to master IM and subQ techniques before they care for real patients. For more information about these products and other supplies for vaccine administration, please reach to a DiaMedical USA expert at 877-593-6011 or info@diamedicalusa.com