Definition:
EMLA Cream is a topical anesthetic (a cream that numbs the skin and decreases the sensation of pain)
Reasons for Use:
to lessen the discomfort from medical procedures (i.e. vaccines, medical injections, blood draws)
How to Use:
- EMLA cream must be applied 2 hours before the procedure to the area that the doctor plans to treat
- Before applying EMLA Cream, wash the skin in the area that the doctor plans to treat with warm soapy water and a washcloth. Rub the skin gently for a few minutes with a wash cloth to remove all dirt and oil from the skin
- The cream should be applied in a very thick layer (about ¼ inch thick)to the site of the procedure. You also need to apply the cream to skin ½ inch past the area to be treated (see chart below)
- Cover the area with tegaderm, being careful not to press on the cream (so that it remains in a thick layer)
- Secure the edges of the tegaderm with medical tape to avoid leakage
- Treatment Results: The skin will remain numb for at least one hour after removal of saran wrap
*Please see the chart below for EMLA placement if your child is following our typical vaccine schedule*
Where to Put the EMLA When:
- 2 weeks—none
- 6 weeks—both thighs
- 3 months—both thighs
- 4 months—both thighs
- 5 months—both thighs
- 6 ½ months—both thighs
- 9 months—both thighs
- 12 months—thigh and fatty part behind the arm
- 15 months—thigh and fatty part behind the arm
- 18 months—lateral shoulder and fatty part behind the arm
- 2 years—lateral shoulder
- 3 years—lateral shoulder
- 4 years—lateral should and fatty part behind the arm
- 5 years—fatty part behind the arm
- 6 -10 years—none
- 11-18 years—lateral shoulder