How can I prepare my child for an immunization shot?

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  1. Dr. Michael Roizen
     
    Dr. Michael Roizen answered:
    I recommend priming your child for a successful immunization by making sure of the following:
    1. He has a good night's sleep. Toddlers typically need twelve to fourteen hours of total sleep a night plus naps.
    2. He is not showing symptoms of any illness, nor has he been around anyone with an infectious illness for a week before the vaccination.
    3. He is well hydrated. Cajole, bribe -- do whatever it takes to get him to drink beforehand. Children younger than one year old should have breast milk or formula; those between one and two, a glass of milk or water; and kids three to five years old, one to two glasses of milk, juice, or water.
    4. He has had adequate amounts of vitamins A, C, and E for at least a week prior to the appointment. Breast milk provides these vitamins, but we recommend that you supplement with a baby multivitamin such as Tri-Vi-Sol or Poly-Vi-Sol drops -- 1 milliliter a day starting at age two months. Older children should also be taking a daily multivitamin.
    More Related Answers from Dr. Michael Roizen
    I recommend priming your child for a successful immunization by making sure of the following: He has a good night's sleep. Toddlers typically need twelve to fourteen hours of total sleep a night plus naps. He is not showing symptoms of any... More
  2. Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
     
    To prepare your child for immunization, you may give him or her an age- or weight-appropriate dose of Tylenol approximately 30 minutes prior to the appointment. Ibuprofen may also be used after your child reaches 6 months of age. Consult your physician if you are unsure of the appropriate medication dose.
    To prepare your child for immunization, you may give him or her an age- or weight-appropriate dose of Tylenol approximately 30 minutes prior to the appointment. Ibuprofen may also be used after your child reaches 6 months of age. Consult... More