Getting blood drawn...?

Question

I'm like seriously afraid of getting my blood drawn(I'm 14),when my doctors suggest i get it done i wait till the last moment,how can i make getting my blood drawn easier?And where could i purchase EMLA cream?

Answer 1

I don't blame you about the blood draw.

Make sure you are well hydrated before getting the blood drawn. If you are dehydrated, it will be very difficult to find a vein, and they will have to poke you over and over to get the blood. If you've got a few days before the blood draw, drink lots more water. About an hour or so before the procedure, drink another couple of glasses of water. That shouldn't interfere with any tests.

Talk to the person who is going to draw the blood and explain your fears. A really good phlebotomist (person who gets the blood) will ensure that they've found a good site before inserting the needle.

Also, there's a topical drug they can use on the skin area that works quickly. It's called "Numby" and it's often used on children or adults who have problems with getting blood drawn. This is very similar to EMLA cream.

Be sure to ask for Numby by name, or they won't think to use it. You won't have to bring your own supply, but you will have to specifically request that they use it. You may even have to insist on their using it.

Answer 2

Im not "scared", but I hate it. My best advice is not to look. Its not painful if the nurse does a good job at getting the vein the first time. If you go well-hydrated, then they shouldnt have any problems extracting blood from you and more than one jab with the needle shouldnt be necessary.

As I said, my best advice is not to look and to think about something else until it is out of your arm.