Need advice on relaxing during a Blood Test?

Question

Really hate and scared of needles.

Last time i had,blood drawn, i became hysterical - so didn't get it done.

feeling sooo sick with nerves.

Answer 1

close your eyes-take a deep breath and go to your happy place-or listen to music on your ipod!

Answer 2

I can't stand it either, the band bothers me the most. I have actually passed out before (I totally scared this little nurse one time). But I finally realized it only takes a moment, that it will be over soon. I try to think about time and how it always continues with or without us, and all the times I just wanted so much for some miserable thing to be done. So as long as I hold still and go with it, it will be over that much sooner and I can get on with my life. I am much better now, I even got my blood drawn once with my daughter in my lap! And then I started giggling, which I do not recommend because it caused a huge bruise.
GOOD LUCK!

Answer 3

Take a deep breath and look the other way. Also, take someone to hold your free hand, that always works for me. Get into a conversation with who ever is in the room, and distract yourself. The last time I had a blood test, I talked with my close friend and she asked me a question that required me to think and name off a bunch of names. Honestly, by the time I was done answering the question the nurse was totally done and the rubber band was off my arm. I had no idea it had already happened! I too am petrified of needles and get so nervous when it comes time for a shot or blood draw, so I know where your coming from. But remember it really will be over before you know it, be BRAVE, I know you can do it ;) Good Luck!!

Answer 4

DO NOT LOOK at the needle as it is being inserted. Look away, or close your eyes and think of something pleasant like the beach! I hate needles but since I adopted these methods as a teenager I ahven't had an issue!

I also find that it's helpful if the person drawing your blood acknowledges that there will be "some" pain.

Answer 5

Learn to fight your fears. A blood test, if performed by a responsible person, shouldn't be much trouble. The tubes that the needles get attached to are vacuums, so you dont have to worry about outside air getting into your blood stream, which is dangerous.

I used to be afraid of blood tests because I did not like having needles in me. I don't know if this is wierd, but it feels more comfortable to actually watch the process, than looking away. Probably because you know when the needle will go in and when to prepare for that moment.

Answer 6

Its ok, chances are that there's at least one thing that scares everyone out of their normal behavior. So now that you've noticed the problem you're taking steps to solve it. Thats a positive start, my advice would be to take a few minutes before bed tonite to think about why needles scare you. Was it a previous experience, was it something you saw on tv, something you heard, or something you automatically relate to needles that makes you feel like its dangerous to get a needle. It will be hard but if you take it slowly and put yoursef in charge you will get through this. Its very important that you reason with yourself. I used to be very afraid of needles also, with me it was something I saw on tv. But then I was forced to take consecutive needles, forcing me to face my fears. I'm sure you've heard this before but try to distract yourself, in the beginning this might not work. And if thats true one possible suggestion is for you to watch the needle touch your skin, pierce, draw a little blood, and withdraw, leaving you w/ an ache in your arm, but on the whole, in one piece. I hope this helps, good luck.

Answer 7

I understand - I hate it, too. Every blood place has people who are really good at it. Let the front desk know that you are scared to death and want the BEST, most painless person there: there's one guy where I go who is literally painless, he's so good. Then , don't watch and do breathing exercises while he is doing his job.

Also, try to put into words what freaks you out so much, and then try to deal with it. As you get older, you'll have to have stuff done that is unpleasant; You might as well come to terms with that now.

Answer 8

My job is drawing blood, so I deal with nervous people on a daily basis. We like it when you're nice and friendly, and it's ok to mention to the phlebotomist that you're nervous, that way we know not to tell you when we're poking, and know not to wave the needle around before we poke. If I have someone that I know is feeling nervous, I'll distract them with small talk and make sure they're sitting so they can see the "distraction poster" Hopefully you have a nice phlebotomist (we have one that's not very friendly, she's good, but kind of cold) that will help you through the experience and make it not so bad. My philosophy is it's ok to yell, just don't move your arm!

Answer 9

ask for someone who specializes in difficult sticks, or one who specializes in children. they are generally more gentle. I know it sounds morbid, but I am also afraid of needles, and something that helps me is to actually watch the stick. Also, try taking an ipod or cd player or something and playing some favorite songs, and close your eyes before the stick is done. If someone can go with you, take them, and have them hold your hand and talk to you or something...the main thing to remember is that it's just a little needle, and the people who are doing the test are professionals. Ask them to talk to you and explain everything to you, and to talk you through it. If they can't do that, then they shouldn't be in the medical professional.

Answer 10

I am so sorry you are going thru this. Just try to look away and think of something pleasant or a treat you will give yourself afterwards. Remember the fear is the bad thing the worst part, the needle does not hurt very much at all.

Answer 11

I hate needles too.
What I do is try to make "friends" with the one drawing the blood.
I say, you know I am such a baby with needles, please be easy with me. Then I say you know some of the nurses do so well that I do not even feel it. Can you do that.? If you are real nice they are much more gentle and try to make it easier on you.
Just remember, as you walk in the door, before you know it, you will be walking out with a band aid on and it will be all over.
Good luck to you.