Doctor Visits: Comfort Positions

I have found that one of the simplest ways to help toddlers (and us parents!) make it through their vaccinations in a positive way is through comfort positions.  Comfort positions are secure “hugging holds” that help children feel safe during medical procedures.  Studies show that children report less pain while sitting up (or sitting in a caregiver’s lap) than while lying down.  And using comfort holds has been shown to make medical procedures faster and more successful, with fewer adverse effects.  Not only do these positions help to ease kids’ anxiety and pain, but they also facilitate a quicker and safer process.  In short – a better experience for everyone.  

Comfort positions differ based on the age and development of your child, as well as on the procedure. Below are a few examples of comfort holds for toddlers:

1.Bear Hug (Chest-to-Chest):

Good for: Vaccinations (thigh), blood draws

Kids who: are smaller, need distraction, don’t want to watch what is happening

I use this with my kids – I tell them that I’m just giving them an extra big, tight hug and sing to them or explain what is happening during the shot. 

2. Side Hug (Side-Sitting):

Good for: Vaccinations (arm), blood draws, ear exams

Kids who: are older, may want to watch what is happening

I always ask parents to hold their kids in this position during ear exams, with one hand on their body and the other on their forehead.  I’ve never had a patient cry during an ear exam when they are safely nuzzled in their parents’ arms like this!

3. Back to Chest:

Good for: Blood draws, throat exams, COVID-19 testing

Kids who: want to do something during the procedure (i.e. watch phone, iPad, read book)

I use this position all the time when doing strep throat swabs or COVID-19 tests for my patients.  I can do the test more quickly and with much less pain when their head is resting safely on their caregiver’s chest.  

Using these techniques allows you to stay connected to your toddler when they are feeling overwhelmed with emotion. While holding them, you can sing to them, speak with them in a calm voice, or tell them stories. If you have a second person with you, they can distract them with a lovey, a book, some screen time (we do whatever we can!), while you hold them. You are their safe place. And you are able to actively help them get through a tough experience. I find that, with my patients and with my own children, using comfort positions really helps to make the visit go easier. I also feel much happier knowing that I can help in some way during that time.  

If you would like to use these comfort holds at an upcoming appointment, I recommend trying them out with your kids beforehand when you are practicing for your doctor visit (more on that in my next post). They require that you, as the parent, feel comfortable holding your child safely during what is often an emotional time. This isn’t easy! Try on a stuffed animal first and let your toddler try too.  Then try to practice big “bear hugs” with them for a few days at home, before you get to the doctor. 

Lastly, talk to your doctor during your visit. Let them know that you would like to use comfort positions when it is time for their shots. You can talk about practical ways to make it work.  Planning it out with the team makes the process go more smoothly. As I tell my patients, you are always the best advocate for your child! And you are a member of your child’s medical team, so you can feel comfortable taking control of this part of your child’s experience. They are in good hands with you.  

Warmly, Anjuli 

Photo by Jordan Whitt on Unsplash