Blood Work for Baby?

I know you have had a lot of responses, but this may help. As soon as the technition put the rubber on my daughter's arm, I started to softly sing "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" in her ear. By the time the blood was drawn, she had tears in her eyes, but no crying. The technition was impressed. She said usually babies start to wail as soon as she puts the rubber around the arm. I know it is hard, but this helped us...best of luck. J.:)

Five minutes of pain for the baby, instead of maybe a life with brain damage if the baby has lead in them, doctors usually dont order.. I know its painful to watch but it might be something the baby needs

Blessings

I know Kaiser is big on testing at age one. It's a good idea to get it done as there has been a lot of publicity about lead in toys and other household items that are around you kids. Better safe than sorry. They can use special needles for children.

Hi D., I'm not so sure you need to have this done, unless the doctor suspects something, they have to have a blood test done to go into kindergarten, so I think I would just wait, if your son is healthy and there are no signs, of lead or an illness. It;s a personal decision, but as a mom I don't think I would have it done. J. L.

At 12 month of age, they do a blood test to check for Anemia. This is standard procedure at this age.

As for checking for lead exposure... our Pediatrician gives us a form to fill out... then depending on that outcome, will either recommend a blood test or not. Perhaps, your Doc is wanting a blood test for your son because they suspect of lead exposure. I don't believe a Pediatrician would suggest unnecessary blood-work unless it were needed, especially at this age.

As for getting a blood-draw... well both my daughter and son had those for various reasons. My daughter had her blood-draw at 1 yrs. old for the standard anemia testing... and my son had several blood draws within the first couple weeks of his life because he had bad jaundice. It's fine... sure.... you should be referred to a lab or hospital that handles children. Ask for a "butterfly needle" (this is for children and is a smaller needle). Or, they prick the finger and drip the blood via capillary action into a blood sample container. There is also a cream that can be applied that numbs the epidermis. But, this is usually not necessary & I don't know if it can be applied to children... the blood draw only hurts when the needle goes in...then it's over pretty quickly.

I know it seems like a horridly painful event... but if it is necessary, then you DO need to do it. Mostly, you can sit and hold your child during the process and to keep them still... you can turn and look away if it is uncomfortable for you... or you just try and soothe you child and distract them, sing to them etc.

In actuality, for me at least, the thinking about it is more horrible than the actual event. The child won't be "damaged" from it... and they will cry... but, if it has to be done, it has to be done. Especially if it is for health concerns.

Again, make sure that this IS necessary to do, OR is it optional in your son's case. Each child and situation is different.

Good luck and all the best,
Susan

Only when her finger prick (routine test for anemia at one-year check up) demonstrated a low iron count was it recommended to me that I take my daughter in for a CBC (complete blood count). The purpose is to make dietary/supplement changes if, in fact, she was anemic. As a mom, I wanted to know that information so I could do the best for her health. And, catching it at an early age would be worth the pain of experiencing a blood draw with her.

Well, that said, I did take her to a "pediatric" lab and it was a 45 second procedure. The only thing that mommie had to get over was the visual of a little baby arm with a tourniquet on it and seeing a needle go in. My daughter cried, but by the time we walked out the front door she was her cheerful self with a new arm bandage which she wore for the next 30 minutes. It was my tears that lasted longer than hers to be sure. If your hubby is "better" about those things, I'd recommend he go in your stead. Personally, I'd like to not have that visual of her in the lab (I held her by the way, there was no "strapping baby down") as a lasting memory, but not at the cost of my daughter not getting the proper preventative medical attention she may need.

I am absolutely opposed to invasive medicine without cause, and standard routine is not cause. If they suspect a problem, the tactic I've tried successfully was to hold my child through the procedure and feed him (breast milk when it was my new born, chocolate when it was my 2 year old).

Otherwise, you can always say no.

Also, I'm not sure what state you're in, but California does not require blood tests. Most states have opt out clauses for parents refusing such work based on religious or philosophical reasons.

same thing happened to me when my boy was 18 months old ( he's now 5), he had to have his lead level and cbc(blood count- usually a routine test) done, however, my little boy is what they call a "hard stick". in other words, we both had a traumatic experience as no phlebotomist can draw his blood over and over again, at separate times.he was very upset and was very sweaty after each experience and so was i , only because i was hurting for him too. i thought i can never watch my child go through a torture like that but i am the stronger one bet. my hubby and i. i brought the issue to the MD and was reassured that it was okay to not have to go through the test at the time and that they will just perform it when he was a little bit older. my son never had to do it again until last month when he had to go for his physical, only this time, it was a finger stick that they did in the doc's office. all the years, he was fine and didn't exude any sort of symptoms of lead exposure nor symptoms of anemia which is the big thing. i am a nurse by profession and made sure the doctor and i monitored him for anemia and lead exposure. just make sure he is up to date with his dr's visits and a mom has that instinct of knowing if there was something not right going on with her child.also ask the MD if finger stick is possible for the test, or if they can offer any other alternatives on how to test your child for it, that is if the lab has trouble testing him or if you feel strongly about the process.. my son's experience was of course very bad, but it isn't the same for everyone, it takes only min. for the test to be done,depending on your child's veins and cooperation and there will be a guaranteed crying-either you or your child, but you'll both be okay. good luck.

whatever you do- go to children's hospital. i took my son at age 2 to a "regular" technician and she was awful!!!!! we couldn't keep him contained and she basically stuck him and blood shot out everywhere. he was a wreck, as was i. i went to children's a week later and the woman coached me on how to hold him- he barely cried and it was over in a second.

My health care is with Kaiser and they asked that my 1 year old (at the time) have her blood drawn. I said no thanks!
Well, actually I told them I would come back for that because she had her shots that day. I just never went back to do it. And they never said anything when she went back for other reasons. I think they test for iron levels and maybe diabetes.
Oh well, I just didn't feel it was nessesary.
Good luck!

We had this done for both kids and actually asked for it because we live in a historical home and are concerned about lead paint. I assure you that you child will not remember the experience. Trust me... my daughter had to have multiple invasive tests from the time she was born to the age of 1.5. She even had an extensive surgery and does not remember a thing. I suggest going to Children's Hospital if you can for the blood to be drawn if you are super concerned. They are experienced with drawing blood from children.. I have NEVER been impressed with the lab that my ped sends us to. Both of my children survived blood being drawn as babies, I had to breathe deeply to handle it, and I was assured that my children are healthy! Have you husband go if you don't think you can handle it. I totally understand!

My son has a health condition which requires regular blood monitoring. He gets blood drawn every other month and has since he was about 8 months old. I wouldn't ask for a numbing cream, that's for IVs (and believe me, we've done IVs! He was hospitalized every month for the first 7 months of his life). IVs are very different than simple bloodwork, they're harder to do and hurt more. For general bloodwork, I would just go in there and steel yourself for it. If your baby senses that you are upset, he'll get upset too. I just sit there and hold him like it's no big deal and he really doesn't freak out until after he feels the needle go in, and then he only cries while they're drawing the blood. It's like 15 - 30 seconds, depending how many vials they need. As soon as it's over, he's happy again. If you feel like you absolutely CAN'T stay calm for this, have your husband do it.
As for how your lab does it, we use Kaiser and at both the Vandevere lab and the Zion hospital lab, they are wonderful. They have mom or dad hold the baby, then they have one lab tech to stabilize the arm they're sticking, and another draws the blood. I have NEVER had them take two sticks to get his blood, they always get him on the first try and are quick as can be. This isn't because my son's an easy stick, he's a really hard stick. The average time it has taken to get an IV on him is 1 1/2 hours.

My son had blood work at that age, but not for anything "routine" I have 3 kids and none of them have had blood work for lead. I'd maybe call the lab and ask if it is routine. If your friends are in the same city as you and their pediatricians don't do it I'd begin questioning it. I agree it is very traumatic at that age. My son had to have 2 small viles of blood drawn and it was horrible on me and I'm sure on him too. I would say if it's optional and something you're not concerned about you shouldn't do it.

I have never heard of that, you may want to check with your insurance company and contact the Director of the hospital . You can also check on the web. I will ask around too.

Hi, D.
I know; it's so traumatic to see the little ones so terrified! I just wanted to share a story with you with the hopes that it might help to ease your mind.
My older son had to get stitches in his forhead (between the eyes) when he was nearly 2 yrs old. (he fell at the park and split his head open on a concrete bench). We had to wait for quite a while at the ER, during which time, the bleeding had actully stopped (the injury still needed treatment and stiches though; it was all 'globby' and there was a flap of skin that needed suturing). When they finally brought him back to treat him, the nurse was AWFUL; she manhandled him and was barking at him to 'stop crying!!!!' He was not even TWO yet!!!!! I was furious and it was all happening so fast. Then more people had to come over and help but they were all pretty rough with him. He was thrashing about uncontrollably so they had to put him in a straightjacket thing with velcro to hold him still. He was absolutely terrified and very visibiy angry. When they were done (about 1 or 2 minutes later), he was hyperventilating and it seemed as though he was having convulsions from the fear and trauma. He wouldn't let me hold him; he was just crawling around on the ground on all fours and screaming. He was, honestly, acting like a feral animal. It was the most horrifying experience of my life; my MIL stayed with him so I could go get the car because I was so upset. I still have flashbacks of the incident and it makes me physically ill and shaking.
BUT...my point here is to let you know that now, at age 6, he doesn't even remember the event! I was 100% SURE that he was going to have permanent psychological damage from that experience. However, like I said, he honestly doesn't even remember it (unless I show him pictures of his head). Also, earlier this year, he had to get a blood draw for the first grader blood tests and he was really mad and upset but he got over it when we went out for ice cream afterwards (at 10 in the morning...we were the only people there, ha ha!) So I guess my point here is to say...If you are worried about the trauma and long term damage of the needle aversion and overall experience, I don't think it will be a factor. Of course he will be upset at the time, but he will most likely get over it with lots of snuggles and perhaps a special treat or toy, as others have suggested. Good luck with your decision and I wish you all good health! -Suzanne
(oh, and PS ~ for those of you reading this who say 'I would never let them do that to my child', let me tell you, I was totally the mama bear trying to protect her cub, but since they had been poking at the wound it was once again gushing blood and they were understaffed and there was no one else there, and since it was gushing I just wanted them to finish as fast as possible - the blood was getting in his eyes, ears, mouth... It was all happening really fast. Also, since I (and they) had been unable to physically restrain him, they had to put him in the straightjacket with a big board underneath (you can't hold it, it's too big). I tried to hold him but they needed to work fast and for me to stay out of the way so they could immobilize him. They actually had 2 people physically restraining ME so that they could work on him. It was the most terrible experience of my life.)

Usually peds only recommend bloodwork to test for lead if there's reason to believe that there was lead exposure - if there is reason, then I would do it.

I just opted not to have bloodwork done on my son (who's 9 months) after he had a slightly low reading for iron/anemia. Finding a vein on a little one is not an easy thing to do, and I personally did not want to put him through that if it was not absolutely medically necessary. We're going to check him again with the toeprick at 12 months, and if there's still a slightly low reading, then I'll do the bloodwork... Again, only if it's medically necessary! :o)

My ped ordered one for my son at 1, but I just didn't do it. At the next visit he asked me about it, and I said he hadn't been exposed to lead (I've read the checklist paper a million times) and the Dr said ok, fine.

I also have never heard of it. I would find out what the something else is and then make you decision. If the lab tech is proficient with children it will be fast and minimally traumatic. My son had to have blood work at that age because they thought he was anemic. The tech was great and it made all the difference.

hi D.,
Both my Son's (now 2.5 & 4.5) have blood work done at their year check ups and every year since. My thought on it is I want to catch whatever he could have before it gets to the point where symptoms start affecting his life and it would be harder to treat. (Error on the side of caution) Also, if not, those "why are you doing this to me eyes" become "why did you let this happen to me" eyes, because more shots and blood work may insue. Ask for a butterfly needle and if he asks you, be honest with him and tell him it will hurt a bit, but it is needed to make sure he is healthy. You may think he's to young to understand, but you'd be surprised. I always tell my boys when they are getting a shot and if they ask if it's going to hurt, I say "yes, for a little bit but it will be over quick and then you'll get a lolli pop" (bring your own just in case they don't have any or ran out). This way when they have procedures at the doctor's or dentist that are not going to hurt, they will believe me when I say, no,it's not going to hurt. My boys never move now during them. They verbally complain but understand the importance of it so they sit still. And when it's over...it's over!! Good luck and remember to stay calm yourself, your son can pick up on your anxiety and get nervous too.

they do the testing once a year for my son and I bring him a special toy for him to cuddle while it's happening. I also explain to him before we go and when we get there that he's going to get a small prick and it will hurt and it's ok for him to cry. I think that him knowing what's going to happen helps him in the long run.

Yes, it is routine for blood to be drawn at 12-18 months to check his lead level and also to check his blood count. A finger prick is way more painful than having blood drawn. Most kids cry because they are being held down, not because it is painful.

They're testing for anemia, and yes, it's an important test. Ask your doctor (or the nurse) if you can come to their office before you go to get some numbing cream on both of her arms. Also, if you stay calm, she'll be calm too. Babies feed off of our emotions, so it's important for you to stay calm so she won't be scared. Good luck! ;)

Hi D.,

Funny I read your response tonight, because I went through this experience with my one-year-old son today. My son had his lead draw at 9 months, which came out fine, but they found he was anemic. Now, at 12 months, I wanted to see if the natural interventions I have been incorporating into his diet have helped. (I did not want to put him on synthetic iron supplements). TO be honest, I hated it, and I found myself asking how necessary it was. It was horrible. They poked him 4 times before they could find a vein. He was screaming and looking at me with "those" eyes, like "Mom, why are they doing this to me?" BUT RIght after, he was back to his happy self, crawling around, pointing at things and smiling and laughing. In hindsight, I am glad I did it, even though it was hard for both of us. I want to be sure he is healthy. I definently will wait atleast 6 months before I do it again, but I am hoping to get good results. If you decide to do it, make sure he is well hydrated. I think they can find the vein easier if he drinks fluids prior. Also, I like the idea of talking him through it and explaining to him before, during and after. I gave my son graham crackers after, because he likes them. I praised his bravery. During the draw I sang to him and kissed him. GOOD LUCK. It is not easy, but I hope this helps.

Warm Regards,
K.

It is my understanding that this is just routine. My son had his 12 month (1 year) bloodwork done to make sure he was not anemic or had any other issues that would be indicated in blood tests. It was extremely tough, but I made sure that I did and have maintained a dialogue with my son about everything he has done since he was in the NICU after premature birth. He's now two and I have always been honest, it might hurt and you probably won't like it but...you know, just keep them informed...they get it.

Good luck.

They can do a lead test with a quick cut on the heel. Don't do it, it will be traumatic.

Hi D. ~
Its been a long time since my daughter was a baby, but I can almost guarantee that she never had this done. I don't recall her having blood drawn or lab work until she became very sick shortly after her first birthdate at which time it was definitely necessary to conduct those lab tests. You are doing your share by asking your friends and family; however, I would advise that you call the pediatrian's office and ask them to give you the specific types of tests they will be performing so you can then conduct your own research online to ensure your peace of mind. We can't be too careful with our precious little ones. Good luck.

My ped also wanted to do routine testing for lead and anemia. I skipped it because I didn't feel her exposure to lead was very great (I guess if you have an older house with lead pipes, or are on a well water supply you would definately want to have your child tested). She was on iron fortified formula plus eating solid meats, so I was not worried about anemia. She is very healthy, so I tend to err on the side of less is better! It is totally up to you to do what you feel is best for your little man. Good luck!

Hi D., My son has had blood drawn for many different reasons and had to have surgery when he was 5 weeks old and then again when he was almost 2. He is now almost 2 1/2 and he is ok. The best thing to do is just hold your son close to your body when he gets it done. My son would only cry for a second and then was fine. My son as also had a lead test done and all they do is prick their finger. My son didn't even really cry for that one. I know it's hard to watch your child be in pain but you want to make sure that their health is ok too! If I didn't watch my child go through everything that he has had to go through then he would still be in pain today! I would say that if your doctor wants it done then there most be a reason for it. Your son will be ok. Good Luck and God Bless!

I used to work in the medical field, and I am sorry to say it is necessary. The finger prick only calculates a hematocrit level, the complete blood work will check if your son has anemia, vitamin deficiency or dangerous amounts of lead. That will not show in the finger prick. When I took my daughter at that age and now that she is five, I sang to her and it helped to calm her down, take her to ECRMC lab and ask for martha or ana they are great with children I only allow those 2 ladies to draw my childs blood. If neither is available you can ask for a pediatrics nurse to do it, they have the experience.

Our pediatrician also wrote an order for blood work at one year. I believe it is pretty common bc most other one years I know have had the same blood work. The main purpose is to test for lead exposure and anemia. I decided not to bring my daughter at this time because I have heard awful things about the blood drawing. They basically pin down the arm to draw from a vein. I would say that if you are comfortable not having the blood work, then it's not a big deal. Good luck!!

Since this is only routine, I would decline it. Unless your baby had the hemoglobin test (just a pin-prick) and it came back that he was anemic (when you are deficient in iron levels it can make you more susceptible to lead poisoning, but otherwise, unless you know that your son has been routinely exposed to lead, it is unlikely). I had to have my oldest son's blood drawn when he was only 15 months old. It was necessary, but it broke my heart. I would not do it unless it was absolutely necessary.

I did it with my son. It's better safe than sorry...i think. Especially when toys randomly get recalled for lead. There are a lot of tears. Right or wrong I usually go to Target afterwards to get a little toy. Good Luck!

Regardless of where you go (lab, Children's) to have the blood drawn, insist that a numbing cream be applied to the area. I learned about this when my son was in the hospital and had to have several I.V.'s. I think it used to be called EMLA..but I know that there are several topical numbing agents. But you do need to plan this ahead of time because it has to be applied anywhere from fifteen minutes to half an hour before. This might be something you can get a prescription for and apply at home, if not you can go early and they can apply there. (I would also check with my pharmacist, at the very least they can tell you what to ask the doctor for by name.) They, doc's, nurses etc. don't even tell anyone that this is available because it is simply a pain in the neck for them...but the option IS there for you.
(That being said..I have had the same experiences with my children not remembering a thing about what I thought were harrowing "doctor" visits.)
Best of luck, be strong!!

Hi D.,
My son had blood work for a genetic test at about one year. He did great... didn't cry, didn't budge. If you present it to your son as something ok (don't freak out about it in front of him) he will probably be just fine. He'll sit on your lap and just talk to him and it's over quickly.

Good luck.

I felt the exact same way... my daughter just turned 2 and I still haven't taken her. I just couldn't imagine them strapping her down to take blood. I have heard that there is a pin-prick way to do it but the dr. said it had to be from a vein.

If there are other options, please let me know too. I read a lot about lead and it is devastating but if you catch it early, you're ok. I WANTED to get her tested but I just couldn't...

Our son (who is now 16 months old) went through his blood draw at 12 months and although he cried terribly (and my husband had to take him into the lab for the draw, I just couldn't), I was glad we went through with it. When it was all over, our son stopped crying, went back to his normal happy self and we had peace of mind that everything was okay with our son. He had no lead in his system, he wasn't anemic and he wasn't allergic to anything. We wouldn't have know all that without the blood draw. They took a couple of vials when he had his blood drawn and while the initial prick does hurt, I think our son cried more from his arm being held down while the blood was being drawn. I really think it's better to be safe than sorry and if you do decide to go through with it, ask for your child's blood to be tested for allergies at the same time to avoid further testing in the future. Good luck to you, your husband and your baby!

Send your husband. It may be your 1 yr old will cry and fuss, but won't remember it. It is worse to do this with a 5 yr old who remembers it and talks about it over and over.