blood test in a 4 year old?

[MrPoppersPenguins]

My nearly 5 year old has been called back to a hospital clinic ( which is worrying enough- won't bore you with long details) and we were told he'd probably need bloods taking. He didn't accept the idea of his last lot of vaccinations well (screaming and clinging) so how on earth are they going to get a blood sample from him??
Any tips/advice would be most welcome and appreciated!!

[Sirzy]

If it's a paediatric blood clinic they should be well prepared with distractions and things.

I would try to explain to him as best as possible what will happen and that it is so they can look what is happening in his blood.

Find out from them if they use cream or spray to numb. If it's cream try to get it to put on at home to save having to wait around and risk increasing stress.

[MrPoppersPenguins]

Thanks Sirzy. Don't think I'll be able to get it put on at home as the appt is tomorrow (they only rang to arrange it today!). Part of why I'm worried as this feels like they've rushed us through.

[Sirzy]

At least then it will be done.

I always find a bribe promise of trip to the shop afterwards helps too.

[Wolfiefan]

Can you pick up cream from GP? Or ask for it to be put on when you first arrive.
Big picture book to read. He won't see what they are doing. Or bubbles to blow.
Get him well hydrated before.
We use squeeze ball things from Hawkins Bazaar. Gets veins up.

[aaahhhBump]

It might a thumb prick for a full blood count so make sure his hands are warm and unless less he's to fast make sure he's had lots to drink. HTH

[PinkSwimGoggles]

you can buy the cream from the chemist.
put it on before you go.

[MrPoppersPenguins]

Thanks for the helpful advice!

[aaahhhBump]

How did you get on?

[MrPoppersPenguins]

Typically they didn't even want blood in the end! I will keep this info in mind in case we need it in the future though! Thanks again.

[aaahhhBump]

Ah well. Seen as you've more notice does the hospital have a teddy bears hospital or play therapy department that could give him a bit more support? You should be able to get referred through consultant's secretary.