How to explain laboratory tests to a child
You can ease a child’s anxiety about laboratory tests by explaining the procedure to them in advance. Please note that children under 15 years old require a physician's referral for tests.
In the OmaMehiläinen service, you can view not only your own health information but also your child’s health information. Even if you don’t personally use Mehiläinen’s services, you can register for OmaMehiläinen and link your child to your family profile. You can access the OmaMehiläinen service by downloading the OmaMehiläinen app to your phone.
When you visit the laboratory with your child, it’s a good idea to explain how the sample collection will proceed and what it involves. Often, simply knowing what will happen in the laboratory can reduce a child’s anxiety.
Sometimes, a child may mask their fear with anger or aggressive behavior instead of shyness or tears. In such cases, it’s especially important for the adult to remain calm. Check out tips on how to prepare for your child’s sample collection.
Please note that children under 15 years old require a physician's referral for tests.
Tips for adults – How to prepare your child for laboratory tests
- Explain the tests to your child honestly.
Do not lie about the pain or sugarcoat it too much. You can comfort the child by saying that the situation will be over quickly, but avoid comparing a blood test, for example, to a mosquito bite, as it is not the same and doesn’t feel exactly the same. - Explain the reason for the test to your child.
For example: ”We are going to the laboratory for a test so that the doctor can help in the best possible way”. - For school-aged children, inform them about the sample collection well in advance so that the situation doesn’t come as a surprise.
For younger children, it’s better to inform them a bit later, but it’s still good to go over where you’re going, what will happen in the laboratory, and what will be done afterward. - Avoid using words that may seem unpleasant or painful.
For example, words like “injection” or “puncture” might sound scary to a child. Also, leave out excessive details if they seem to confuse the child more. - Tell them that the laboratory staff will guide them on what to do.
Reassure them that everything will go smoothly if they follow the rules and instructions. Remind them not to touch laboratory equipment unless given permission. - Address any fears according to the child’s age level.
Discuss any unpleasant feelings with the child in advance. If you notice that the child is clearly afraid, ask about their feelings
Is there something that could make the sample collection easier for you? Many people feel nervous about laboratory tests/blood tests/sample collection. Do you feel nervous about it? Would you like to bring something important or a toy with you for comfort? - Talk about pleasant topics during the sample collection.
Anxiety can diminish if the child can talk about things they like. Also, remember to praise the child for their brave behavior. - Comfort them and explain that unpleasant feelings are normal.
A little pain is not dangerous, and it’s okay to cry for a moment. A hug can help.
Important tip for adults: Hold the child securely during the sample collection. Staying still is essential for good sample quality, and the process will be over more quickly.
What if the adult is nervous about the child’s sample collection
Often, the most important factor in reducing a child’s fear is the presence of a parent or familiar adult. However, if you as an adult are too nervous, you might pass your fear onto the child.
- Prepare by talking and other means.
Talk in advance, bring snacks or an important item/toy for the child. While concrete preparation can ease your child’s anxiety, it can also help reduce your own uncertainty. If you know you’re too nervous, calmly go over in your mind what will happen and what your role will be. - Stay calm or wait outside if you’re too nervous.
The child will feel safer if the adult is confident. If the child is older and can manage on their own, the adult doesn’t necessarily need to be present during the sample collection. Sometimes, even with younger children, it can be agreed that the accompanying adult waits outside if they feel too uncertain about the situation. - Keep in mind that every situation is unique, no matter how much you prepare.
Our staff will support you and your child in the best possible way in any situation. Our laboratory employees have received basic training in handling fearful patients and children during sample collection. Feel free to ask either on-site or in advance through customer service if you have any concerns.
How to visit Mehiläinen’s laboratory with a child
We recommend booking an appointment for your child’s laboratory test sample collection. Booking in advance helps avoid unnecessary waiting. It also allows the laboratory staff to know, based on the date of birth in the booking, that a child is coming for the sample collection.
Please note that children under 15 years old require a physician's referral for tests.
If you come for sample collection without an appointment, check upon arrival if there is a separate queue for child patients. In uncertain situations, ask our staff for assistance on-site.
If you use the OmaMehiläinen service, you can view not only your own health information but also your child’s information there. Even if you don’t personally use Mehiläinen’s services, you can register for OmaMehiläinen and link your child to your family profile.
You can access the OmaMehiläinen service by downloading the OmaMehiläinen app to your phone.