Is anyone else terrified of needles??

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Hello all, I am new to the site and just took my net test Thursday. If I pass, I will start lpn classes in September. I have always had a passion for nursing and helping people, but the major thing that bothers me is that I am absolutely terrified of needles for some reason. Everytime I have to give blood I can not watch them put the needle in, I turn my head and just want it to be over quick. I guess I am just afraid of hurting someone? I love watching all the E.R., trauma, code, etc. shows on t.v. but even on t.v. I can't stand to watch them cut someone open with a scapel or stick them with a needle. If the person has died or something such as an autopsy it's o.k. for me to watch it. Is this weird or are there others out there that are scared of needles but you want to be a nurse so bad?? I am a CNA right now and love to help people if I can, it seems to make life a little easier and make my day better to know that I can be of help to someone. Is there anything you can do to get over this? Thanks in advance, Amber

Specializes in Geriatrics, Hospice.

I don't like needles, don't like scapels or watching surgery, but it's a part of nursing. When I did my clinicals I watched the surgeon perform a total hip replacement. Yes, it turned my stomach, but it was really something to watch the surgeon at work.

I also was in the ED during a clinical and a man came in with a metal rod through his right arm. I watched the physician and nurses remove the rod and stitch him up. It's not a pretty sight, but it's again, part of nursing.

I won't watch the nurse take blood from me. Since I have terrible veins I tell them to use the butterfly needle and use my hand. Saves me from a lot of sticks and saves the nurse the trouble of trying in another place to get blood.

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I totally freak out (on the inside..on the outside I am a calm as can be) when the needle is intended for me me. But if my finger is on the plunger and the needle is pointed at someone else..doesn't phase me at all.

Like the other poster, I can watch anyone get a needle but myself and my children.

Nope I'm not a big fan of getting needles but I am the first to jump in and give it to someone else.

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Specializes in ER; HBOT- lots others.

i am SO the same way as everyone else!! i HATE HATE HATE needles coming towards me, but am very good at doing IV's and blood draws when needed.

i think thats what makes someone better at doing it to others, because we know!

so go after it head ON! you will realize that once you are doing it, that the sharp end is the other way and you will be just fine. i swear! lol

Maybe try doing some desensitation----lol- watch all those shows more and more! heheheh (totally NOT medical advise!)

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Specializes in Peds Critical Care, Dialysis, General.

As long as I have the syringe/needle in my hands, pointed away from me, that's just fine and dandy. However, don't try coming AT me with with a needle - I need holding just to get my yearly TB thing done!

Just one of those funny little control issues.

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As long as I have the syringe/needle in my hands, pointed away from me, that's just fine and dandy. However, don't try coming AT me with with a needle - I need holding just to get my yearly TB thing done!

Just one of those funny little control issues.

I feel the same way. Needles scare me. I could never get a piercing.

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