by: Sam Robinson | WISHTV
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Innovative Hematology is using creative methods to reduce anxiety and fear in children during medical visits, including the use of a stuffed animal named George and a device called Buzzy.
Sara Ridenour from Innovative Hematology explained that preparing children for medical visits and using play can help desensitize them to medical tools. By using objects like a stethoscope in a non-threatening environment, children can become more comfortable with the equipment they will encounter.
“It’s always best to prepare children for what’s going to be happening and to be open and honest with your communication with them,” said Ridenour.
Innovative Hematology employs various strategies to make medical visits less intimidating for children. One approach involves using a stuffed animal named George to help children express their fears and understand medical procedures. By practicing with George, children can bring him to appointments, allowing medical staff to demonstrate procedures on the stuffed animal first.
For procedures involving shots, Innovative Hematology uses a device called Buzzy, which vibrates to distract the brain from the pain of needle sticks.
Additionally, numbing cream is offered to patients to minimize discomfort during injections, helping to reduce fear and anxiety associated with medical visits.
Ridenour emphasized the importance of reducing fear early on, as it can improve children’s lifelong attitudes towards healthcare. By starting with techniques like numbing cream at a young age, children can become less scared of medical visits over time, potentially leading to better health outcomes.
Innovative Hematology’s efforts to make medical visits less intimidating for children could lead to improved attitudes towards healthcare and better attendance at medical appointments. By addressing fear early, children may grow up with a more positive view of healthcare experiences.
SOURCE: WISHTV
