Emla cream

[MegGriffin]

I have been given this for DD(11) as she needs a blood test and is very scared. Do I put in on elbows only or back of hands as well. She did not tell me but I have always had blood taken from elbow when I have had a blood test.
Also any strategies for making it less stressful for her please?

both -in case they don't find a suitable vein (anxiety makes them shrink - ds is hugely nervous) It might be worth trying the cold spray - ds really relaxes now with this and now he knows it's much easier he goes to have blood tests with far less anxiety. The emla cream can also make the skin very sore and red if they have sensitive skin. I used to have ds on my lap,facing me with his arms round me,so he can't see- the nurse takes his arm then-so he feels secure too and can't wriggle too much.
I should point out that he is now 13 and far too big for this tactic

Thanks MaryAnn. DD is over 5 foot so not really an option. I already have the cream. Does the spray come from the chemist or do they have it at the surgery?

they spray it on just before the blood test,so none of the anxiety inducing waiting for the cream to take effect - it really has made a huge difference to ds.

sorry-they have it at hospital/docs

That's worth knowing, thank you.

good luck !