I have to get an iv and I'm deathly afraid of needles what should i do?

Question

please help!

Answer 1

Alex, I know how you feel. I have very tiny veins and very few that work, so getting an IV is excruciating. I learned 10 years ago, when I needed surgery, that there was a way to keep me from feeling anything when getting an IV. I had a really nice doctor, who did not rush things and listened to me when I told him about my vein problem. He told me not to worry; he left the room and when he came back he had a can of a spray that froze the area where they were going to do the IV. I felt absolutely nothing when they put in the IV.

Guess what, though - most doctors don't want to go to the "trouble" of doing that. Every time after that one good experience, I had to fight in order to get it. Now I've learned to let the doctor know in advance about the pain it causes me and how I really need my arm frozen before they put in the IV. It usually works since I have good doctors, but sometimes I have to remind them and stand my ground if they seem annoyed because they have to wait a minute while someone gets the can. But it's worth it to stand up for yourself when it comes to your own medical care. Good luck.

Answer 2

I know sometimes they will put stuff on the spot to numb the area.

they only do that for specific things (I'm not sure what exactly) but I'm sure if you told them your deathly afraid of needles, they'll make an exception. (if your not exactly "deathly" afraid, little white lies never hurt anyone :P)

if they do indulge you, than just look away and close your eyes, and ask them not to tell you when they are putting it in.

once it's in, just avoid looking at it at all costs.

Ive had too many IV's to count, and they're not that bad, I have a pretty big fear of needles too, but once their in, you realize how unrational you were being lol

Answer 3

relax, close your eyes and take some deep breaths. Let the nurse know you are not good with needles. they should have you lay down to avoid getting light headed if you are nervous. You can ask the nurse to numb you first. the numbing medication uses a tiny needle and stings briefly but makes getting the IV in alot easier and makes the IV site more comfortable for awhile. your comfort and well being is most important. I've had more IVs stuck in me that I can count. you'll get through this. I used to be terrifed but now that i been through it quite a few times I'm not afraid anymore.

Answer 4

1. Tell the phlebotomist you're deathly afraid. He/she really needs to know this.
2. Ask to lie down during the procedure.
3. Ask the phlebotomist to chat with you, or chat with him/her yourself. Trivial topics are good. "What kind of education do you have to have to do this?" "I had a really bad day at school today--this teacher...." "I'm thinking about having my tongue pierced." Whatever.
4. Just before the "stick", breathe IN slowly and deeply. During the stick, breathe OUT slowly and deeply.
5. Some agencies can use xylocaine as a local anesthetic so you won't feel the IV. Ask about this.
Good luck!

Answer 5

I draw blood for a living. First things first make sure you're lying down when they do this. In case you get light headed since you're "deathyly afraid". Drink some water before you do this, so you not too dehydrated. Warn the tech prior to them doing this. Look away and make conversation and next thing you know it'll be over. Good luck!!

Answer 6

Demand for a local anaesthetic like EMLA cream or something. The medical personnel will apply the cream and they have to insert the needle quickly. It can be a spray type too.

Answer 7

Dude I have had to have my blood drawn for blood tests since I was 13. The trick is to look away from them as they are getting ready to insert the needle.

Answer 8

read a book before they put it in and keep reading it whilst they are putting it in the distraction is better than any thingn else.

Answer 9

if psyching yourself up doesn't work for you, call the doc's office. they can prescribe you something to calm you down before you go. you'll need someone to drive you though.

Answer 10

let the Dr or nurse know ,so they can give you a pill to relax=good luck