PCW #9: Core competencies for psychologists in understanding and managing vaccine and needle pain, fear, and fainting across the lifespan (72348)

Presented by:

C. Meghan McMurtry

Sponsored by:

N/A

Continuing Education Credits:

3 CE Credits

Language:

English

Cost:

Duration:

3 Hours (AM) (8:30 - 12:00)

Target Audience:

Clinicians and graduate students

Skill/Difficulty Level:

Introductory

Workshop Description:

The majority of children, half of adolescents, and 20-30% of adults have some needle fear; one in 10 individuals are so afraid of needles that it causes avoidance and impairment. Widespread vaccine uptake is critical to the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine hesitancy is one of the top threats to global health. Needle-related fears are a known contributor to vaccine hesitancy. Needle fears also contribute to avoidance in other areas of healthcare where needles are commonly used to prevent, diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions. Psychology professionals have a key role in supporting vaccine uptake and healthcare by addressing needle-related fears through evidence-based interventions. This workshop will provide a cutting-edge summary of the substantive literature on needle-related pain and fear management across the lifespan. Systematic reviews and clinical practice guidelines will be presented, emphasizing practical advice for clinicians and students. Concepts of pain, fear, anxiety, phobia, vasovagal syncope, and immunization stress-related responses will be defined and distinguished. The speakers, nationally and internationally recognized experts in needle-related pain and fear, will share their personal experience in assessment, and intervention development and delivery in an accessible and engaging way. Attendees will leave knowing how to make needles as comfortable as possible.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe the consequences of unmanaged fear and pain from needle procedures in childhood
2. Define pain, fear, anxiety, vasovagal syncope, and immunization stress related responses
3. Identify evidence-based pain, low fear, and fainting management strategies for needles across the lifespan
4. Discuss exposure-based strategies for the reduction of high levels of needle fear across the lifespan
5. Identify evidence-based knowledge translation products for needle-related pain and fear including CARD