A: Assess your own stress | A: Act in your child’s best interest |
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B: Belly breathing | B: Be aware that needles are distressing |
Take a slow deep breath through your nose for 3 seconds, expanding your belly and not your chest Then breathe out through your mouth for 3 seconds; each time, count 3 seconds Repeat this 3 times while cuddling your baby
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C: Cuddle and calmly talk to your baby | C: Carry out what you think is best for your infant |
Babies should always be held closely before, during and after the needle If the needle is going in the your infant’s arm (or thigh), hold the arm (or thigh) firmly but gently, so the baby won’t move it Calmly talk to your child after the needle Let your child know you’re there for them, bring them closer, and talk about anything but the needle or pain Many parents find it easiest to talk about what they will do when they leave the office The baby may not understand the words, but they understand your tone
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D: Distract your baby | D: Do your best to help your child |
Distract your baby and take their attention away from the pain Distraction can only occur once the infant is ready to be distracted; this is typically between 20 seconds and 1 minute after the needle Trying to distract the child when they’re not ready to be distracted can cause more distress If the infant isn’t ready to be distracted, return to cuddling for a little longer
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