There are many times as a parent where we are unconfident in trying something new for our children for fear that it may be bad for them, which in turn will add more work for us as a parent. This may stem true especially for parents of asthmatic children.
Similarly, some parents may be fearful in trying out new foods for their children to explore. What if they are allergic to it? What if their reactions will cost us thousands in hospitalization bills?
It is completely understandable for parents to have a bit of fear and insecurity when it comes to introducing children to new things; whether it is food, textures, people or even medication. Well, especially medication.
HCP prescribed medication to asthmatic children
The subject of trust as a parent is fairly subjective. Sometimes, putting in trust to explore new things can be tough for a parent especially since we know what is best for our asthmatic children.
However, there is nothing wrong with trying out new things to ensure the wellbeing of our kids.
Searching for a solution that can help the child develop healthily can be tedious and stressful. Especially when the child themselves reject the prospective solution. In this case, we are talking about the nebulizer.
Most children are afraid of the nebulizer, which makes parents insecure in trying it out for a fast relief solution for the child even when introduced by a doctor in the clinic. So, how can parents gain more confidence in trying out the nebulizer to help the asthmatic child to gain relief from their asthma?
How to put trust in using the nebulizer
A parent and a child’s emotions are highly interconnected. If the parent feels sad about something, the child may be able to detect this and feel sad too. If a child is agitated, then the parent will surely stress out about the child’s nervousness!
Hence, when a child is afraid of using the nebulizer, the parent will also start to think that maybe the “neb” won’t be the best solution to help the child. After all, is it worth struggling for an hour and a half with a child screaming bloody murder over refusing treatment?
Before we delve into how a parent can gain their child and themselves confidence in using the nebulizer, parents must first identify what is causing the child to reject the updraft treatment.
But it is also highly important to only receive medication as prescribed by your doctor!
What is causing my child to reject nebulization?
- Noise. Nebulizers usually have a low, buzzing sound that may be irritating to your child’s ears. As their hearing is still developing, the low noise may cause hypersensitivity and discomfort to the child.
- Intimidating appearance. The overall look of the nebulizing contraption may seem intimidating to the child. They may feel fearful as the “scary thing” will have to be very near their nose and mouth area.
- Boredom. When using a nebulizer, the child will have to sit still and cooperate for about 15-20 minutes before they can feel the effect of the medicine. Most young children are unable to focus for long periods of time, especially by just sitting still.
So, how can parents take action in ensuring the child will receive the treatment that they should?
How can parents support children into using the nebulizer in the clinic?
When becoming a parent, there are many skills that must be involved to ensure successful parenting. In this case, a lot of critical thinking and creative skills will have to surface!
With that being said, there are many (MANY!) ways ² for parents to explore and discover that using the nebulizer may not be all that bad.
1. “Treat”-ment time. Parents can encourage children to use “the neb” by allowing them to do what they like to do most during treatment, provided it does not require the child to move too much. During treatment time, give your child a bit of leniency so they will understand that using the nebuliser will have them rewarded.
2. Using noise-cancelling headphones. As mentioned, the noise of a nebuliser may
cause sensitivity or anxiety to your children. It’s best to invest in a pair of noise-cancelling headphones to give your child brief comfort from receiving treatment in aclinic environment, which may be intimidating to them.
3. Screen time. Most parents may not be too keen on the idea of introducing too much screen time to the children, but when push comes to shove, it may be helpful to have your child’s focus fixated on the screen for as long as the nebuliser needs to do its job!
4. Read stories. Some parents have shared that using nebulisers is easier when the children can enjoy a story. The relaxing comfort of hearing the parents’ voice can cancel out the buzzing noise of the nebuliser itself, surely.
5. Be consistent. Choose a suitable time that you and your child can maintain, or anytime that works for you! Let your children get used to a timely routine so they will not feel so agitated when the time for treatment comes.
6. Ensure security. Children rely on their parents a lot for safety and comfort. As they feel fearful of the nebuliser, it is the parents’ job to make sure the child feels safe around the contraption. Hold your child close to you during treatment time, or talk to them in a soothing voice to convince them that it is okay.
Most importantly, ensure that the child is having fun even while receiving treatment. After all, applying medication can also provide good memories for both parent and child and that is just as important as getting healthier!
Note: This material is provided for educational purposes only.
Approval code: MY-11042_APR2023
Source:
¹ Kids Health, AireHealth
