From an early age, having to fight various medical conditions meant I had to take lots of medication. I could feel the frustration from my parents and medical staff as I struggled to take it.
I tried all sorts. Some tips work better for me with certain medications than others. I can always remember one particular moment. I was struggling to swallow because my throat was sore. A nurse in the hospital thought it would be a great idea to break the antibiotic capsules and put the contents on some ice-cream. I was not convinced. She suggested we try some first together. With a teaspoon each, we put some in our mouths. I think I must have set a world record running to the sink with the nurse, it was disgusting! Mum, not quite believing us, tried some of the mixture. Then she ran to the sink to spit it out. In hindsight it was so funny but not at the time.
Here are five tips for helping children.
Honest Explanations
Be positive, patient and explain why they need to take the medication. Be honest, don’t tell lies and if you’re not sure say so. It’s the worst thing ever to hear someone say it won’t taste too bad when it really does.
Sometimes being offered, an alternative if there is one, for example, “in place of swallowing medicine, an injection can be given.” This worked great for me as I hated needles. Reverse psychology.
Let The Child Have Some Control
It’s the worst feeling ever when you’re a kid and you are potentially being forced to do something that you just don’t want to do, even if it will help make you better.
Here are the ones that my mum did that worked for me:
Where they take the medications – In front of the TV with their favourite programme on, I use to love watching the Chuckle Brothers.
When they take it – don’t just spring it on them let them know the time is coming up. Some medications have quite a set time frame but sometimes there is flexibility for a child to set the times with an adult.
What they take it with – they may have a favourite spoon or cup.
What worked for me was having a syringe with my favourite sticker on it. This gave me time to prepare myself. I was allowed to administer it myself, without it going everywhere and then get ready for the drink afterwards!
Add Medicine To Food Or Drink
You have to be careful. Not all medication can be given with food/drinks so check with a medical professional.
For me this worked well. If the medication is regular or has been changed, don’t assume the same food or drink will disguise the taste.
I used to love putting it in strong orange squash or flat coke, it took away most of the taste.
Be Ready With An Award
This is a great way to motivate a child it worked for me most of the time.
After ta child takes medicine be ready to offer a treat. This doesn’t just need to be food. Rewards such as a pack of football cards or a sticker for a chart you made them. Get creative with your thinking.
Taking Tablets
I wish my parents had taught me how to take tablets when I was a child. It would have saved a lot of aggravation. Before collecting the medication, ask the doctor to prescribe small sized tablets if possible. I found it easier taking 4 smaller tablets then taking 2 big tablets that I really struggled to take.