TERRIFIED of needles/IV's

This may sound so silly but I am having a TVH next Wednesday and I'm so afraid to get an IV. I am a nurse and I put in IV's all the time but I am so scared to get one myself. I know that number one I should stay hydrated but does anyone out there have any tips on how to not be so terrified of the IV stick?

Ask if they will numb the IV site, then look away as they insert it.... : ) The numbing shot stings but helps me a lot!

The numbing injection is one idea but that, too, involves a needle. Some facilities use a topical spray to numb the area. Others use a cream, brand name EMLA, to numb the area, but that has to sit over the site for several minutes to take effect. Pediatric areas or sometimes oncology use them, so pre op should at least be able to get them. Contact the pre op area and ask about them in advance, in case they require extra time. I used to have a needle fear so I feel for you. Ask for an experienced person, and don't look. If you have someone with you, focus on them and talk about something pleasant, maybe your pets or your vacation. And yes, stay hydrated and stay very warm. Ask for warm blankets if you need to. If it helps, my IV starts were not painful. Best wishes for an easy experience.

I really do understand the fear of needles. How I make it through is 1. bring my husband who understands my phobia and knows how to distract me 2. I bring an ice pack and put it in my pocketbook. For some reason if I know that it is in there I feel better because the cold stops the feeling of passing out. 3. I will lie down and bent my knees. 4. Look away. 5. I also let the tech now how terrified I am and they will talk me through it. Good Luck!!!

Drink lots and lots of water the day before. The water hydrates you and makes it much easier for them to find a good vein.

Chris

I'm OK with needles but whoever I'm with someone who isn't I usually try to get them to sing with me.You mostly end up laughing at the ridiculousness of it and by that time,its usually been done! I've even had the person administering it join in.