Unique vaccination clinic helps calm kids’ needle anxiety

Children and youth afraid of needles and medical procedures are being given the extra support they need at a first-of-its-kind vaccination clinic at Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC).

Originally launched as a pilot project administering COVID-19 vaccinations in 2021, the paediatric vaccination clinic has now become a full-service, permanently funded space. It offers all OHIP-covered vaccines to families with children aged six months to seventeen years. The clinic caters to those who have anxiety related to needles, a fear of medical procedures because of past negative experiences, medical complexities, and sensory or behavioural needs.

“Our clinic is held in a low-stimulation, no-pressure environment where there is no shaming, blaming, bribing or judgement,” said Leah Ethier, a nurse practitioner at Children’s Hospital. “Our goal is to work with each child and their family to come up with a game plan that will allow that child to successfully receive their vaccine on their own terms.”

The clinic is staffed by a team that consists of a nurse practitioner, registered practical nurses, and child life specialists. They use a variety of techniques to help kids overcome their apprehensions. Those include scheduling a special visit to help kids become familiar with the space before their appointment, rehearsing the procedure so kids know what to expect, and providing distractions like virtual reality goggles, books, fidget toys, and video games.

The team also uses numbing cream and comfort positioning for pain management and extended appointment times.

“The idea is that if we can create a positive experience for our young patients, they will be less likely to avoid medical appointments and procedures that are important for their health in the future,” said Ethier. “Our ultimate goal is to help them gain the confidence and skills they need to optimize their health in the long run.”

The clinic operates Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. While a referral is required, parents can self-refer their child instead of going through a primary care provider. Information on booking an appointment can be found on the Paediatric Vaccination Clinic webpage.