One of the most common things, when going to a hospital, is the blood test. Although it is a fairly common test, the procedure can cause a lot of anxiety in some peoplewhether due to fear of needles or anticipation of pain, even if it is mild. Fortunately, a nurse shared a simple trick to calm your nerves before undergoing these types of exams.
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According to the professional, who calls herself @enfermerabuscavena, smelling substances with an intense aroma, such as alcohol, hydrogel or perfume, can help distract the mind and reduce anxiety during a blood test.
“The brain will be distracted by that strong smell and will not think about the blood draw.”pointed out the nurse.
According to the professional, distracting the brain can be of great help during a blood test. (Photo: @enfermerabuscavena)
On the other hand, it is important that you communicate your fear of needles to the nurse or doctor. This way, they can take the necessary precautions to make the experience as calm as possible.
If you don’t put this trick into practice, and if you notice that you are getting dizzy, the professional recommends lying down with your legs up.
When a person feels nervous or anxious about having blood drawn, their blood pressure may drop, which can lead to fainting. By elevating the legs, venous return to the heart is favored, that is, blood flows more easily to the heart. This helps maintain a more stable blood pressure and reduces the risk of the person losing consciousness.
According to Medline Plus, blood tests are laboratory tests that allow us to obtain valuable information about our health. They are used to diagnose various conditions such as anemia, infections, clotting problems, cancer and diseases of the immune system.
In addition, they help monitor the progress of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or high cholesterol, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.
Preparing for a blood test is usually simple, but it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions. It is generally recommended to fast for a certain period before the test, especially if glucose or lipid levels are to be measured.
Some medications can interfere with the results, so it is important to inform your doctor about any drugs you are taking.
A blood test can allow doctors to obtain valuable information about our health. (Reference photo: Freepik)
Doctor’s guidelines and arrive well-hydrated, as being hydrated can make it easier to draw blood and reduce discomfort.
1. What is the main point of the study you shared on your social media platform about calming nerves before a blood test?
@enfermerabuscavena: The main point of the study is that smelling strong scents like alcohol, hydrogel, or perfume can help distract the brain and reduce anxiety during a blood test. It’s all about distracting the brain from the discomfort of the needle and calming the nerves.
2. How does the brain’s distraction play a role in reducing anxiety during a blood test?
@enfermerabuscavena: When the brain is distracted by a strong smell, it can help to take the focus off of the needle and the pain or discomfort associated with the blood test. The intense aroma can serve as a kind of ”trigger” that occupies the mind and helps individuals feel more relaxed and less anxious.
3. What tips do you have for individuals who struggle with fear of needles or anxiety about blood tests?
@enfermerabuscavena: Communicating your fear of needles with your healthcare provider is crucial. They can then take appropriate measures to ensure a calmer experience, such as using a numbing cream or allowing you to sit in a more comfortable position. Additionally, taking slow, deep breaths and focusing on something else in the room can also help distract the mind.
4. Can you describe the importance of blood tests in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions?
@enfermerabuscavena: Blood tests are an essential tool for doctors as they provide a wealth of information about our health. From checking for anemia, infections, and clotting problems to screening for cancer and diseases of the immune system, blood tests can help identify issues early on and monitor the progress of chronic conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol. They also play a key role in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments.
5. How can individuals prepare for a successful blood test experience?
@enfermerabuscavena: Preparing for a blood test typically involves fasting for a specific period of time, following instructions from your doctor regarding medications, and being honest about any health conditions or concerns you may have. It’s important to follow your
