Blood Draw Support for Neurodivergent Pediatric Patients

Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital has developed a tailored blood draw support program for neurodivergent pediatric patients, combining individualized planning, education, and evidence-based coping strategies to reduce anxiety and improve the experience for children and families. Child Life specialists and phlebotomists collaborate to create a personalized approach, allowing children to familiarize themselves with procedures and participate in ways that feel comfortable, leading to more successful and less stressful blood draws. This program has shown positive outcomes, helping children like Frankie build confidence and reduce fear around future medical visits.

Read at Northwestern Medicine Newsroom

All articles from 14 October 2026. Summaries are AI-generated and may contain errors; the linked article is the authority.