Fellow needle phobics how do you cope with having bloods taken?

[Ihatethedawnchorus]

Having bloods taken tomorrow morning, I have a severe needle phobia. Last time(a couple of years ago) I ended up with 3 people in with me-one taking the blood, one holding my arm and one trying to keep me calm as I went into a panic attack. I want to make it easier for the staff as well as me.

So far my plan is emla cream(a godsend), eye mask and headphones with music.

I had a phlebotomist take my bloods once, and I never know she did it. Then had a doctor take them and it felt like they were grinding the needle about in my arm.

The first thing I do is tell the nurse I have a phobia. Then I've got to stay a bit in control, so when they are ready I do the countdown (3,2,1, go). It helps for me not to be surprised. I also hold tight to the chair with my other hand, so that I'm physically holding myself in place and can't bolt, and breathe deep throughout to stay focused.

OP, it might help to lay down if possible if a couch is present. Also, ask for a butterfly needle--they are smaller and more gentle.

...and keep as still as possible. Moving will move the needle in your arm and cause more pain and a longer process.

:(
I made the mistake of talking about my phobia to friends, and got told I was wasting NHS time by showing up but not having the test. Can't win. I feel terrible enough.

Is the butterfly needle the one for babies? The HCA showed me it and it had a butterfly type bit on it.

I need to have my husband with me to hug me very very tight.

Adults have a butterfly needle--can be used for bloods and cannulas, often in the back of hand. I'm not sure if babies have a paed version or if same size.
It is a slightly smaller needle and I find it more gentle.

Ah ok. This one was specifically for babies, but because it was a smaller gauge, it would take longer to get blood.

Emla cream does not work on me, but I might try it anyway. Placebo effect might work, who knows.

I used to have a needle phobia and I still am not keen although who is I guess. It's really worth working on because there will be times in your life when you'll need healthcare that needles will be a part of. What worked for me was telling the nurse about my fear, not looking at the needle, relaxing as much as possible (makes it much easier for the nurse to insert) and a hypnobirthing style technique where I pretend I'm anywhere but getting a needle stuck in my arm.

I do understand that. I know it is something that it is very important. I have not had any of the Covid vaccines due to my phobia.
The only time I was ok with having a needle was in A&E and it was just going to happen. No time to panic. Nurse was there and said we are doing it.
I think having a distant appointment and having to think about it beforehand can make things worse.