Idea Exchange: Distract patients with longer-lasting treats

Instead of offering our patients traditional cat or dog treats in exchange for their cooperation during exams, we dip tongue depressors into wet food to make lollipops. Licking their lollipops distracts our patients for several minutes rather than the couple of seconds it takes for them to inhale a traditional treat. Wet food also tends to have a strong smell, so sometimes we can distract patients by scent alone.

Dr. Laura Martin

Gambrills, Maryland