Tips to remedy the pain sensation in vaccines
For the prevention of numerous diseases nothing better than resorting to vaccinations. These treatments make the child avoid the contagion of conditions such as flu, chicken pox, hepatitis, etc. However, the supply of these can lead to rejection by the child who faces two fears. On the one hand, the fear of the white coat, that is, the pediatrician. On the other, to the needle that is going to puncture you.
In some cases, vaccinations they become the most traumatic procedure to which a child can be lent in the pediatric service. In fact, the slight sensation of pain that the child experiences due to the needle can increase due to this fear. This ends up in a total refusal to assist the doctor to receive this treatment. However, with a little patience you can get to alleviate these feelings in the child.
Relief in newborns
From the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, AEP, several tips are offered depending on the ages at which the child receives their treatment. From the earliest ages to those closest to adulthood. Here are some clues to relieve the pain sensation of vaccines in infants:
- Breastfeeding. The analgesic and relief effect of breastfeeding can be helpful before, during and after the injections. A comfortable and effective system, which takes advantage of the combination of suction, ingestion of a sweet substance, distraction and maternal embrace.
- Sweet liquids. In general, this measure is recommended in those cases where breastfeeding is not possible. There is not an exact amount established, but it is usually recommended to dissolve a sachet of sugar in a glass with a finger or two of water (25% sucrose) and to administer approximately 2 ml, little by little.
- Skin contact with skin or embraced. Skin-to-skin contact, with the mother usually, is effective in relieving pain in painful procedures. In infants, hugging, in any case, is highly recommended to reduce the feeling of stress. It is the preferred position when vaccinating them.
- Distraction techniques. Infants, especially older ones, may also feel some relief from the discomforts of vaccination when distracted by images, sounds and songs, etc.
Relief in young children
- Previous psychological preparation. It is recommended to anticipate the vaccination to the child to be attended. This information should be given well in advance, with one day enough. The child should not be deceived by telling him that it will not hurt, but to emphasize that thanks to this process he will avoid getting sick.
- Distraction techniques. The child can go to the vaccination with his favorite toy or perform relaxing activities such as inflating balloons, making soap bubbles and thus make this process less annoying.
- Standing position. Children should not lie on the stretcher during the pre-vaccine screening. It is better to stay upright and held in the arms of their parents.
Relief in adults and adolescents
- Distraction techniques. Listen to favorite music, entertain with different games or videos on, take deep breaths, etc. helps to reduce stress, before and during the procedure.
- Position during administration. Being seated is the most advisable for these ages since the psychological advantages of the upright position of the trunk are combined with the prevention of the risk of dizziness that supposes the incorporation from the lying position or standing.
Topical anesthetics
The AEP also recommends in all these ages the use of anesthetics local, applied in the form of cream. These products help relieve pain from injections. Some products can be applied even in young children. These items must be given 1 hour before in the area (s) where the injection is planned. The extension should be similar to what a coin would occupy, then an occlusive dressing will be placed (ask to be explained). The cream will be removed before the application of the vaccine.
Damián Montero
