Children’s bodies present some different challenges from adults’ when it comes to where and how to give an infusion. “Fortunately, SCIg needles are tiny compared to IV needles; I often show patients directly the difference in size,” says Platt.
Smaller Bodies, Smaller Sites
Needle Placement and Technique
“Pain can indicate that the needle is in too deep. Itching or redness can indicate that the needle is too shallow,” Platt says.
Numbing Options
Before you begin, ask your child’s medical team about numbing medications to reduce pain from the needle, says Platt.
“Lidocaine numbing cream can be used to assist with self-injections,” says Megan Ehret, PharmD, a professor in the department of practice, sciences, and health outcomes research at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy in Baltimore. “Apply to clean skin about 30 to 60 minutes before the injection, and wipe off before the needle stick.”
