Managing vaccine anxiety

If a resident is anxious about having the vaccine, or has a needle phobia, there are things that you can do to help:

Create a calm environment where the person feels safe and comfortable
Avoid environmental triggers and keep distraction to a minimum, i.e. noise, glare, background distraction
Communicate clearly and offer reassurance and support
Explain the process and respond to questions
Provide a personalised approach
Use visual prompt cards and information leaflets
Choose a time and place that suits them
Engage family – they can be virtually present via video/telephone