Share your most successful tips and tricks...

TALK to the kid while you do it. Then give them a hug afterward and say something like, "I know that hurt and I am REALLY sorry, but it is all over now and it is going to help us to make you feel better" You see I am a patient and when I got "hurt" by medical staff it always helped to hear this sort of thing.

Hi everyone! I just graduated and passed NCLEX, and I am starting at a great pediatric facility next month. In an effort to get this board moving, how about everyone share their best/most creative/most unusual way to distract the kids during procedures or from their pain. Or share whatever else you have found that helps with the kids and/or their families.

hi pedi rn, good for you for choosing pediatrics,I have nursing kids for 30 yrs. and never tire of my job. always happy to go to work and never call in sick just to get away with not working. there are several things that I have to lay on you so hope it helps. first know your age specifics and what works for the age you are dealing with. you've heard the expression get down on their level that's soooo true with kids. you can't talk to a toddler the same way as you talk to a school age kid. anyway my very favorite distraction is I have a watch that plays its a small world while mickey mouse goes round it provides sound(for kids that are blind) and sight and of course both. it works wonderfully. anything with lights music or moving parts that's easy to carry in your pocket. just remember to always treat the kids and parents as if they were your family members and you'll always treat them right. good luck and if you have anymore questions let me know.

margeux