Tips for Supporting Children During Vaccinations: Minimizing Fear and Anxiety

Title: Helping Children Overcome Fear of Vaccinations: Expert Tips for Parents

Subtitle: Nurse Anika Remuzgo shares advice on supporting children before, during, and after vaccination

Date: June 22, 2023

Vaccinations are crucial for the health and well-being of children, with an average of 28 vaccinations recommended for children in Peru by the age of 5, according to the Ministry of Health (Minsa). These vaccines play a significant role in preventing 2 to 3 million deaths worldwide each year, as reported by the Pan American and World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO).

However, children often associate injections with pain and fear, making the vaccination process challenging for both parents and healthcare professionals. To address this issue, Hogar&Familia spoke with nurse Anika Remuzgo, an experienced immunization specialist, who provided valuable tips for parents to support their children before, during, and after each vaccine.

Before the vaccine:

1. Warn and do not lie: It is important to inform children in advance that they will be receiving a vaccine, avoiding surprises during the procedure. Parents should be honest about the possibility of discomfort, reassuring their child that it will be bearable.

2. Explain about the vaccine: Parents should explain the purpose and importance of the vaccination to their children, helping them understand the significance of being inoculated for their overall health and well-being.

3. Don’t minimize their fear: It is crucial for parents to acknowledge and validate their child’s fear, providing support and reassurance. Children need to feel understood, accompanied, and safe during the vaccination process.

During the vaccination:

1. Convey confidence: Parents should communicate with the healthcare personnel administering the vaccine, ensuring that the child sees them as a caring individual rather than someone who wants to harm them. Reassurance from all adults present can help the child remain calm.

2. Stay calm: Parents should remain calm and composed during the vaccination process, as their behavior can influence their child’s emotions. Nervousness from parents can exacerbate the child’s fear and anxiety.

3. Use distraction techniques: Employing distraction techniques, such as storytelling, deep breathing exercises, playing favorite music, or providing a favorite toy, can help alleviate the child’s fear and redirect their attention during the injection.

After the vaccine:

1. Make them feel like a champion: Offering words of encouragement and praise before and after the vaccination can help the child feel empowered and accomplished. Parents can express their pride in their child’s bravery and strength.

2. Reward and show appreciation: After receiving the vaccine, parents should hug and congratulate their child for facing their fear. Words of encouragement, along with small rewards like a hug, a kiss, or a piece of candy, can help the child overcome their fear and associate the experience with positivity.

By following these expert tips, parents can provide the necessary support to help their children overcome their fear of vaccinations. It is essential to create a safe and understanding environment, ensuring that children receive the necessary immunizations for their overall health and well-being.

Remember, vaccinations save lives and protect against preventable diseases, allowing children to grow up healthy and strong.

What are some potential risks of minimizing a child’s fear during vaccinations

Viding a safe space for them to express their concerns. Minimizing their fear may invalidate their feelings and make them more anxious.

During the vaccine:

1. Offer comfort and support: Parents should offer physical comfort, such as holding their child’s hand or hugging them, during the vaccination process. This can help provide a sense of security and reassurance.

2. Distract and engage: Parents can distract their child during the injection by engaging them in a conversation, singing a favorite song, or playing a game. This can help redirect their attention and minimize their focus on the injection itself.

After the vaccine:

1. Celebrate their bravery: Parents should acknowledge and praise their child’s bravery for facing their fear and getting vaccinated. This positive reinforcement can help build their confidence and create a more positive association with vaccinations.

2. Provide comfort: It is common for children to experience mild discomfort or soreness at the injection site after the vaccine. Parents can offer a cold compress or pain relief medication, if recommended by a healthcare professional, to help alleviate any discomfort.

By following these expert tips, parents can help their children overcome their fear of vaccinations and make the immunization process less stressful for everyone involved. Remember, vaccinations are an essential part of keeping children healthy, and with the right support, children can face their fears and successfully receive the vaccines they need.