Today's 'Song To Chew' is NEEDLE-EE NOODLE-EE.  I wrote it with Penny Pefley, one of the two pediatric nurses who initiated our "In The Hospital" album!  "Pokes" or "shots" are probably the number one fear children have about being in the hospital. Few children escape this experience, whether as an injection, an IV start, or a blood test.  It may be impossible for a child to understand why they're being hurt when we're supposed to be making them better, but it's important for them to know that they're not being punished, and that it will help them get better.  Be honest; stay relaxed, and say things like, "It may hurt for a minute, and then it will be over.  I'll help you hold still.  It's OK to cry".  Younger kids may be afraid that all their blood will leak out, and need to be reassured that only a small amount will be taken, and the hole will close.  Band-aids are very important to some children, so be sure to offer them.  Some parents make comments about those "mean doctors and nurses" as a way of showing sympathy for their child, but it helps tremendously when they have a positive attitude towards the hospital and staff. Hugh thanks to nurses Penny Pefley and Diane Gates for their help writing notes for the booklet  that goes with our "In The Hospital" album.  I’m Peter Alsop.  I’ll be back soon with another ‘Song to Chew’.  Bye for now! 
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