Supporting Toddlers During an IV placement: A Parent's Guide

Understanding Your Toddler's Emotions

Toddlers are often unable to articulate their feelings, which can lead to confusion and distress, especially during a procedure. Here are some common feelings toddlers may experience during an IV placement:

• Confusion about the procedure: It seem scary and painful, or it may not be clear what is going to happen to them when the IV is placed.

• Fear of the unknown: They may not understand what or why something is going into their body or have misconceptions about permanency.

• Separation anxiety: Being away from their usual environment and caregivers can cause distress, especially when strangers are going to be touching them to complete the IV placement.

  
  

Preparing Toddlers for an IV Insertion

When preparing toddlers for an IV insertion, it is essential to approach the situation with care and sensitivity. Preparing yourself and your child before a procedure is an effective way to support the patient psychologically, and help you provide appropriate emotional support (Takeuchi et al., 2025), so I encourage speaking with staff who can councel you beforehand. Here are some helpful strategies for you, to ensure a smoother experience:

1. Explain the Process Simply

Use simple language to explain what will happen. For example, you might say, "The doctor needs to give you some special medicine through a tiny tube in your arm" and "This special bracelet is going to get tight for a moment, it's giving you a hug." Keep it brief and positive.

2. Validate Their Feelings

It's important not to lie to the children about the discomfort they may feel, as this can lead to mistrust in the future. Acknowledge their feelings by saying things like, "I know this might hurt a little, and that's okay." Validating their emotions helps them feel understood and supported.

3. Correct Misconceptions

Address any fears or misconceptions the child may have. For instance, reassure them that there is no needle left in their arm forever. You can say, "The needle will come out right away, all that's left is a little straw, so it won't hurt anymore and you can move your arm." This can help alleviate unnecessary anxiety.

4. Use Comfort Items

Allow the toddler to bring a favorite toy or blanket to provide comfort during the procedure. Familiar items can help reduce anxiety.

5. Practice Deep Breathing

Teach the child to take deep breaths. You can demonstrate by taking a deep breath in and out, encouraging them to follow along. This can help them relax.

6. Offer Distractions

Bring along a book, a toy, or a tablet with their favorite show to keep their mind occupied during the procedure. If you're unable to bring something with you, you can ask a staff member or volunteer if the hospital has any toys you can use. For example, research (Moustafa, 2021) has shown that even squeezing a ball can help reduce pain.

7. Be Present and Supportive

Stay with the toddler throughout the process. Your presence can provide reassurance and comfort. Consider holding your child's hand or ask the provider if you can hold them on your lap, if they are experiencing a lot of anxiety and could use this type of comfort hold. As research (Sparks et al., 2007) has show, holding your child in your lap can decrease distress, and has minimal impacts on the ability to complete the IV placement.

8. Praise and Reward

After the IV insertion, offer praise for being brave. Consider a small reward, like a sticker, to celebrate their courage.

By following these steps, you can help make the IV insertion experience less intimidating for toddlers and ensure they feel supported throughout the process.

Post-Visit Support

After the hospital visit, it’s important to continue supporting your toddler as they process the experience:

Talk About the Visit

Discuss the visit with your toddler. Ask them how they felt and what they liked or didn’t like. This can help them process their emotions and feel heard.

Provide Extra Comfort

In the days following the visit, provide extra comfort and reassurance. Spend quality time together, engage in favorite activities, and offer hugs and cuddles.

Monitor for Ongoing Anxiety

Keep an eye on your toddler for any signs of ongoing anxiety related to the hospital visit. If you notice persistent fear or distress, consider seeking support from a child psychologist or counselor.

Conclusion

Supporting your toddler during an IV placement does not have to be difficult and can make a big difference in how your child handles them in the moment and in the future. By preparing them for the experience, staying calm during the procedure, and providing post-visit support, you can help alleviate their fears and create a more positive experience. Remember, your love and reassurance are the most powerful tools you have in helping your child navigate these challenging situations. You are helping them learn coping skills and resilience.

References

Moustafa, S. (2021). Effect of active distraction on children’s pain and behavioral

response during intravenous catheter insertion. Child Care in Practice, 30(4), 421–433. https://doi.org/10.1080/13575279.2021.1898340

Sparks, L. A., Setlik, J., & Luhman, J. (2007). Parental holding and positioning to

decrease IV distress in young children: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Pediatric Nursing, 22(6), 440–447. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2007.04.010

Takeuchi, M., Matsubara, M., Mathis, B. J., Wakimizu, R., & Hiramatsu, Y. (2025). Pediatric

cardiac surgery preparation: Enhancing psychological resilience and coping skills in congenital heart defect patients and families. Progress in Pediatric Cardiology, 78. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ppedcard.2025.101825