The Pediatric Providers at Boulder Medical Center (BMC) Foothills and Longmont Launch “No Ouch! Initiative” for Shots
by Lauren Brave, MD
Pediatrician
In Pediatrics, we are driven by our passion to care for children. One of the most important and successful public health initiatives of modern times — vaccination — involves something no one likes: shots! We have always tolerated this uncomfortable truth since the outcome has been so successful. I’m not thrilled, however, that my clinic is often a chorus of screaming children. While some of this is the nature of working with children, some are preventable. There has been recent media attention for an initiative at a prominent institution to decrease shot pain and anxiety. This NPR article highlights easy interventions, some that we can accomplish together, even in our small practice.
Studies show that anxiety around needles and shots prevents people from continuing medical care, and this can extend well into adulthood. Parents routinely tell me that they feel sad or guilty giving their children vaccines, and sometimes watching their children cry makes them cry. We want to do everything we can to help parents know they’re making the right decision when providing their children with potentially lifesaving medicines. Therefore, at Boulder Medical Center Foothills and Longmont, we’re starting our initiative to prevent as much needle anxiety as possible.
Strategies for Alleviating Shot Anxiety: Empowering Parents and Comforting Children
Infants
- Cradling infants in a parent’s or caregiver’s arms during vaccination provides a safe environment and quick comfort.
- Feeding your infant can also provide a positive distraction
- Older infants may be captivated by a light stick, pinwheel, or other distracting item
These items are available at BMC-Foothills and Longmont. Please ask if they are not offered.
Older Kids
- For older kids who may already have anxiety, I generally suggest screen distraction. Every adult has a phone in their pocket. I acknowledge the mixed message, considering we spend a great deal of time counseling screen limitations. Studies have shown that screens have a sedating effect that is even more successful than oral sedatives. If there were ever a time and a place for appropriate screen use, I would argue that anxiety alleviation for a medical procedure would be that.
- A ShotBlocker or Buzzy is a distracting device we recommend for kids over age 3. ShotBlockers are available at the BMC-Foothills and Longmont front desks.
Parents
- We recommend doing your best to stay relaxed and positive when you have any conversations about shots with your child and when they are getting shots (even if you don’t feel it). Feeling calm and relaxed will help your child to feel more calm and relaxed.
- We advise against promising a shot-free visit, as it can create confusion if a physician recommends a booster after the parent’s promise. We don’t want parents to go back on their promises and do not want to delay important care. If your child asks about shots, I suggest saying something like, “I’m not sure, but I’m sure your doctor will take great care of you. We’ll ask as soon as we get there.”
Coming to the office with a plan can significantly reduce anxiety and stress for both parents and children during vaccinations. It also lays the groundwork for easing anxiety about doctor visits in general, creating a more comfortable experience for everyone involved.
Meet Our Pediatricians at Boulder (Foothills) and Longmont
Our team of board-certified pediatricians brings years of expertise in caring for children of all ages. They are passionate about delivering personalized care and building lasting relationships with families in our community. Click here to learn more about our Foothills/Longmont Pediatrics team. Please call (303) 938-4750 for an appointment.
