Staff members at Johnson Community Hospital in Spalding are giving brave young patients, who need to come into the hospital for blood appointments, personalised stickers, sweets, and fluffy bugs to try and help ease their stress.
The goodies have been funded thanks to the Lincolnshire NHS Charity, which plays a vital role in supporting both Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust to make a difference to patients.
Danielle Hotlon, clinical team lead at Johnson Community Hospital, said: “Many of our patients can be quite nervous about attending appointments to have their bloods taken, especially the younger patients that we do look after.
“This idea is to help them feel more comfortable, more at ease and they also get a little goodie for being brave.”
Danielle continued: “If any child is worried about attending an appointment, I would advise you to talk to them about their appointment and explain why they need to have their bloods taken, in simple terms that they will understand.
“It is always best to be honest and answer their questions.
“For very nervous children, we can arrange a meet and greet with the nurse before their appointment.
“We can show them equipment that we use and explain what will happen on the day.
“We would also make sure the child sees the same nurse to help minimise any anxieties.”
