Numbing cream

The numbing cream must be applied one hour before your child's appointment.

Please buy the numbing cream from any pharmacy if your consultant has not prescribed it for your child.

Applying the cream

You will need:

  • the numbing cream- 'Lidocaine + Prilocaine' or 'Ametop'
  • four strips of cling film.

Do not rub the cream in, as this means it will not work. Do not worry about spreading the cream, as when the cling film is applied, the pressure will do this.

The cream needs to be applied to all four areas as below, which should then be wrapped with cling film to secure the cream.

Please do not use sticky patches, as they can hurt when removed, and the cream does not spread as well.

The backs of both hands:

Kneeling child's hands rest on their knees: a liberal smear of cream crosses the back of each hand

The inside of both elbows:

Kneeling child holds forearms out in front, liberal patch of cream rests on each inner elbow.

When finished your child should look like this:

Kneeling child's elbows and hands are thoroughly wrapped in layers of cling film

Please do not use sticky patches as they can hurt when removed and the cream does not spread as well.

If your child has a reaction to the cream, e.g. itching, please remove the cream from that area and wash with soap and water.

If your child is very young, and you are worried that they may pull the cling film off, please put a long-sleeved top on them and gloves or socks on their hands to try to stop them from doing so.

The Phlebotomist will remove the cling film and any cream that is left on.

Feel free to bring in any comfort object such as a teddy, blanket or dummy. Some distraction activities like 'Where's Wally' are available, but please bring your own tablet / toy / book as appropriate.

Perhaps watch CBeebies on iPlayer or a Dr Ranj video if you think it will help your child.

Adult Phlebotomy

For patients over the age of 16, please visit Phlebotomy (blood tests).