Collections with young people (aged 12 – 18

“The collector who attended to me was full of care, kindness and consideration”

Consumer

Young people should be treated differently to children, as they’re starting to develop their own independence and are sensitive to being treated like children, or having their views not taken seriously. It is important that young people have autonomy and a ‘voice’ within the health setting and feel that any procedures are being undertaken with them, not to them.

One young person told us about feeling highly anxious and being told by the collector to “suck it up and be a big girl.” We want to be a place that young people come back to and feel safe at.

Here are several things we must do:

• Remember to remain patient-centred with young people • Take time to explain the procedure • Show the patient that you do understand why they feel anxious • Let them know that they are in control

What helps

Modifying procedures for trans and non-binary young

people [see next section]. “Young people are being asked in your collection centre why they are on hormone treatment – that’s not acceptable, it’s nosy.” Specialist clinician

Explaining to the young person what you are doing in a

simple, calm and caring manner so they understand the procedure and what is involved to help minimise any fears or concerns they may have.

Being patient. Young people may have different levels of experience in healthcare settings, so they may be shy, anxious or ask questions.

Engaging them. This is particularly true of young people that may spend a lot of time in hospital. They know a lot more about their bodies and they often have many blood tests.

What hinders

Asking questions about the young person, as if they

weren’t there. This is particularly true of children with a disability (such as autism).

Talking to them like a child. This can make them feel as though they do not have choices or control of the situation.

Not listening to or valuing young people’s input on their

own bodies. Young people can be sensitive to not having their views taken seriously so ensure the young person is heard and has autonomy over their body.

On the importance of autonomy and

engagement.

“I told the person who was collecting my blood to use a vein that I knew worked well for blood collecting. The blood collector said they would try a different vein on my other arm. Three times they tried to draw blood from this vein, but they couldn’t get any blood. It hurt a lot and upset me. The collector then went to the vein that I had told them to use and they were able to get the blood.”

Young person A foster carer’s perspective.

“The collector challenged if I was the legal guardian of the child and then asked questions loudly about the child’s autism and history of trauma in front of him. We all felt uncomfortable, and the child was really embarrassed as he’s not come to terms yet with his identity as an autistic person. None of that seemed relevant to the collection.”

Carer