Lab tests can feel unfamiliar or stressful for children—and for the adults who care for them. To help make blood draws easier, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States laboratories now offer pediatric comfort options designed with our youngest members in mind. These tools can help reduce discomfort, ease anxiety, and create a more positive lab experience for children and their families.
When your child needs a blood test, ask the laboratory team which comfort options may be appropriate. Depending on your child’s age, individual needs, and the procedure, the team may offer:
- BUZZY®, a medication-free device that combines gentle vibration with a cold pack to help reduce discomfort.
- Gebauer’s Pain Ease®, a fast-acting topical spray that briefly cools and numbs the skin.
- Sweet-Ease®, a sucrose-and-purified-water solution that may soothe infants, particularly those up to six months old.
- Distraction techniques may also be used to help your child feel more at ease before and during the blood draw.
Our laboratory professionals will explain the available choices, answer your questions, and work with you to select an option that fits your child’s needs.
It is one more way we are providing thoughtful, compassionate support to help every young member have a calmer, more comfortable visit.
