We know from research and experience that one of the biggest fears for patients and families when coming to the hospital is getting needles—whether for blood draws, IV starts, or immunizations. To help make getting needles easier and less painful, we’ve adopted an evidence-based pain management program called The Comfort Promise. This promise, a collaboration with Minnesota Children's Hospital, is put simply as, “We will do everything possible to prevent and treat pain.”
Evidence shows that the following four steps make needles less painful and scary for children:
- Topical Numbing Cream
- Sugar water for babies (12 months or younger) or breastfeeding/skin to skin
- Comfort Positioning
- Distraction
As care providers, we’re happy that we can provide comfort before, during, and after needle procedures.