The Majority of children dread receiving shots, and many times the experience of the doctor’s office. Although it is difficult to see your child scared or hurting, getting childhood vaccinations is one way of ensuring their health and well-being. This is why it is crucial to remain on track with child vaccinations in Summerville SC.
What to Bring to the Appointment
Prior to your child’s appointment, write down any questions you may have for their pediatrician. If first time at this doctor office, be sure to bring a copy of their vaccination records with you. This information is also needed when enrolling them in school. If possible, keep a digital file on the vaccination history. Another thing to bring on appointment day, their favorite toy.
Speak Truthfully
To help your child with this experience, be honest with them, explaining what a shot is and what to expect. Wait until either the day before or the morning of their appointment for this explanation, ensuring they do not have several days to build up anxiety. If there is an older sibling, have them talk about their experiences with child vaccinations in Summerville SC, and how it was not bad.
Help Make Shot Easier
Help make injection time easier by singing or talking softly to your child. Keep a smile on your face while maintaining eye contact to ensure they look at you rather than the needle. Try using their favorite toy as a distraction immediately after to help calm your child down.
If the child vaccinations in Summerville SC are for an infant or toddler, there are certain holding positions recommended. Hold them in an embrace that is not too tight;anxiety
is added when tightly. Keep in mind;they
can wiggle their way away from the needle. Hold an infant or toddler on your lap with the side against you if receiving the vaccination in a leg. Use one arm to place around them while holding their outer arm. Hold onto the child’s other arm with your free arm.
If an older child is receiving the vaccination in their arm, either hold them facing out while sitting on your lap or while you are seated, have the child face out standing in front of you. To avoid any sudden movement, anchor their legs between your thighs.
After Vaccination
Immediately after the vaccination be sure to embrace your child gently. Tell them how proud you are of them while using a soothing voice. Ask your pediatrician how to minimize side effects from their child vaccinations in Summerville SC.
If you would like more information contact Palmetto Pediatrics, or call us today at 843-797-5600.
