Buzzy^® for Kids

Buzzy^® instructions are simple, but many health care workers may need an explanation since the technology is new. Buzzy^® was developed with nurse and doctor input to ensure that the medical procedure wouldn't be compromised, and feedback from healthcare workers has been overwhelmingly positive.

Click here for How to Use Buzzy^® for Yourself

To use Buzzy^® for kids: First, let your child see and experience Buzzy^® at home. Kids trust Buzzy^® more when they've already experienced how it numbs the skin, so let them see and activate Buzzy^® before going to the doctor. When it's time for shots, let the nurse know you'll be using Buzzy^®. Explain that Buzzy^® will be turned on during the needle stick, but will be placed above the place where the needle goes, and won't get in the way.

For immunization pain prevention, place Buzzy^® at the top of the shoulder or the top of the thigh, a few centimeters above where the shot will be. Turn it on, and 10 seconds later the nurse can give the shot. For lab draws or IV pain prevention, Buzzy^® can be attached to the arm with the included velcro strap so the arm can be held still.

Let your child have as many choices as possible. Let them choose whether they press the switch or you do and whether to watch the shot or not (believe it or not, up to 25% of kids prefer to watch!). Buzzy^® stops sharp pain, but light touch sensations are transmitted on different nerves. If your child is scared and focuses intently on the shot, they will be able to feel the touching sensation of the needle, and may translate this as distress and fear even though the sharp pain is controlled.

Use distraction cards or other methods to distract the child during the shot while Buzzy^® is still on or in place. You can use any of the distractions listed on this site (blow out a puff of air, add numbers, do a task) or have them use the optional distraction cards (find a color, watch it move, answer a question). For infants less than 5 months, use the red and black distraction card design and show or wave it about 15 inches from their face. For 6 months and up, use the bright colorful designs. For 15 months and up, games and instructions may be most effective.

Once the shot is done, you can turn off Buzzy^® and put it away for next time!

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