Children's blood tests

[Blamenargles]

Been to the Dr's with DS 3yrs and Iv got to take him to the hospital for blood tests doing.

To anyone that has took their dc how do they do it, please don't tell me it's the same way they take adults.
I don't mind injections I can sit and have/watch them all day but having blood I'm not good want to be prepared.

I also my ask someone to go with me so I can stay calm for DS.

Also any advice to make sure it's not too traumatic for DS is more than welcome

You normally have to make an appointment at the hospital. The Phlebotomy Department will keep the atmosphere light, lots of smiles and conversation. For small children they take them to a separate area away from the masses and the phlebotomist chosen will specialise in taking blood from children. Some areas take the bloods on a children's ward as there are more distractions aimed at children. They apply an anesthetic cream to the area so the child will not feel the usual "sharp scratch". They can take smaller amounts of blood for children, they are placed in smaller bottles and are processed manually in the Pathology Department so a small amount goes a long way. Make sure that they drink plenty of water prior to the appointment as this helps with the flow and adhere to the fasting duration as this will only result in being sent away and another appointment being made. Always good to prepare the child by talking about special cream and possibly offering a reward for being brave after the event. Good luck.

Yes they get 'magic cream' on back of hands and lots of distraction when the needle goes in.