What degree you need to become a pediatric nurse?
Steps to Becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree. The first step to becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner involves completing an undergraduate degree in nursing.
- Pass the NCLEX Exam. The National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) evaluates aspiring nurses' knowledge and skills.
- Gain RN Experience. ...
- Enroll in a Nursing Graduate Program. ...
Why I choose to be a pediatric nurse?
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: 8 Reasons to Consider this Career
- Obviously…. The Kids! ...
- You’ll Be a Master. If higher education is your goal, then the NP route is for you! ...
- Money, Money, Money. Naturally, with a higher level of education and specialization comes a higher pay. ...
- It Keeps You on Your Toes. ...
- You Could Be Your Own Boss. ...
- The Benefits Are Great. ...
- There’s a Great Demand. ...
- Job Security? ...
Should I become a pediatric nurse?
Pediatric nursing is an occupation that requires dedication, preparation, and hard work for those with a genuine interest in the care and well-being of children. It is generally considered one of the most rewarding careers. The field of pediatric nursing has a variety of specialties you can choose from based on your goals for entering the profession.
How can I become a pediatric nurse practitioner?
To become a pediatric nurse practitioner, the following educational requirements need to be met:
- Earn a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited college or university
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Hold an active and unrestricted RN license
- Earn a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Ph.D. with a specialty emphasis in pediatric care
Is it worth being a pediatric nurse?
Pediatric nursing can be very rewarding and present you with interesting challenges. You have the opportunity to not only work with children but their families as well. If you like working with kids and are comfortable around them, pediatrics may be a good specialty to consider.
What is it like to work as a pediatric nurse?
“The most rewarding aspect of working in pediatrics is that you can play, make jokes and be a little goofy at times,” Dean says. Not only is that good for the kids, but it's good for you too. Nursing can be very stressful, and these interactions can bring joy to a normal day.
Is being a pediatric nurse stressful?
Pediatric nursing is a rewarding career, but it's also a stressful one. No matter what type of nurse you are, you can expect long hours on your feet, time constraints to get work done and the emotional toll of watching patients endure illness and death.
Is pediatric nursing a good career?
Becoming a pediatric nurse can be a rewarding career choice for the right nursing professional. The opportunities pediatric nurses have to care for varying types of patients in varying settings and at varying levels are measureless.
What is the highest paid pediatric nurse?
ZipRecruiter found that the majority of pediatric nurses earned between $60,500 and $87,500. However, salaries ranged from as low as $46,000 to as high as $117,500. Salary.com reports that pediatric nurse salaries ranged from $60,927 to $94,933.
Where do pediatric nurses get paid the most?
1. WashingtonTotal Pediatric Nurse Jobs:4,763Average Annual Salary:$86,565Lowest 10 Percent Earn:$52,000Highest 10 Percent Earn:$142,0001 more row•Apr 6, 2021
What is the hardest part about being a pediatric nurse?
The hardest part of being a pediatric nurse is coping when a child dies.Education and Experience Requirements. Problems in pediatric nursing include the lack of comprehensive training in nursing school. ... When Children Die. ... Parental Stress. ... Inflicting Pain.
Which nursing field is least stressful?
The 10 Least Stressful Nursing Jobs This Year (2022)Nurse Educators. ... Institutional Nurses. ... Research Nurses. ... Public Health Nurses. ... Occupational Health Nurses. ... Case Management Nurses. ... Home Health Nurses. ... Clinic Nurses.More items...•
Why is pediatric nursing so hard?
Pediatric nursing is much more difficult than other types of nursing due to the age and care that these young patients need. These nurses make their young patients' a little less frightened by using their patience and warm personalities. Pediatric nurses may also have to work with patients who are critically ill.
What are some perks of being a pediatric nurse?
One advantage of being a pediatric nurse is the ability to work primarily alongside children, reassuring them when they are afraid of medical tests or even staying in the hospital. An additional advantage of working closely with children is that you can offer hope and care to the children you are treating.
How long is a shift of a pediatric nurse?
Your standard working week will be around 37.5 hours on shift pattern which can include nights, early starts, evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
Is it hard being a children's nurse?
It's no secret that nursing is challenging, especially caring for children and their families in situations no one ever hopes or even thinks they could be in. Working in critical care, nurses see highly emotional and distressed patients and parents every day.
Is pediatric nursing difficult?
Pediatric nursing is much more difficult than other types of nursing due to the age and care that these young patients need. These nurses make their young patients' a little less frightened by using their patience and warm personalities.
What does a pediatric nurse do in a day?
Check in child patients, evaluating their symptoms and checking their vital signs. Complete diagnostic tests. Administer medications or minor procedures. Create a treatment plan or coordinate follow-up medical care.
What do pediatric nurses do on a daily basis?
The pediatric nurse will discuss a child's symptoms and medical history, provide initial care, administer prescribed medication, and monitor the patient's progress. The pediatric nurse will also provide support to families and work with them to address their concerns, fears, problems, and options.
Is it hard being a children's nurse?
It's no secret that nursing is challenging, especially caring for children and their families in situations no one ever hopes or even thinks they could be in. Working in critical care, nurses see highly emotional and distressed patients and parents every day.
What does it mean to be a pediatric nurse?
Working as a pediatric nurse means you can change a child's entire life by providing care for them and by educating the family. Learn about the rewards and challenges of this demanding but fulfilling career from active pediatric nurse practitioners (NPs).
Do pediatric nurses report abuse?
Also, as legally mandated reporters, pediatric nurses must report potential child abuse, which can take a tremendous emotional toll.
What does a pediatric nurse do?
A pediatric nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who specializes in providing care for infants, children and teenagers. These nurses work closely with doctors, family members and other health care providers as part of a child's clinical care team. They often act as a liaison between children, caregivers and physicians to facilitate communication. Because pediatric nurses work with children of different ages, these professionals can have many responsibilities. Some of their common duties include:
Why do pediatric nurses work?
Pediatric nurses help to treat and heal sick or injured children. In emergency situations, the actions of a pediatric nurse can help to save a child's life. They may also assist with children's annual physical exams and make sure they're up-to-date on medical treatments, such as vaccinations. By providing these services, pediatric nurses can help to maintain or improve a child's health. These outcomes can provide pediatric nurses with high levels of career satisfaction and help them find fulfillment in their work.
Why do pediatric nurses feel pressure?
They may become stressed by the various responsibilities of their position, such as monitoring patients and communicating with doctors. Some pediatric nurses may feel increased pressure in their jobs because they develop emotional connections to their patients and want them to have positive outcomes. It can be helpful for these nurses to develop strategies to manage their stress, such as breathing exercises or taking short breaks.
Why do pediatric nurses listen to patients?
Nurses listen to their patients' concerns and answer their questions about medical procedures and treatments to help them understand their plans of care. Because pediatric nurses are caring for children, they may experience challenges in communicating with their patients, particularly if a child is too young to understand why they require medical treatment. Other children may be nervous about their treatment, which may cause them to become unresponsive and refuse to answer a nurse's questions. To resolve these challenges, pediatric nurses often use their creativity to develop alternative methods of communication.
How many hours do pediatric nurses work?
Many pediatric nurses, particularly those who work in hospitals, work long shifts. Often, these nurses work 12-hour shifts three days a week. It can be challenging for nurses to take breaks during their shifts because they're often responsible for monitoring many patients at one time. Sometimes, a nurse manager may ask a pediatric nurse to work overtime if there are staffing shortages or patient emergencies. Pediatric nurses often work on weekends and holidays, which means they may have less time to spend with family and friends.
What are the hazards of working as a pediatric nurse?
Working as a pediatric nurse may put these professionals in contact with various workplace hazards. A pediatric nurse may become exposed to a virus or pathogen through contact with a patient's bodily fluids. They may work with chemicals, such as those found in chemotherapy medications. Pediatric nurses are often responsible for carrying or lifting patients, which can cause them physical strain. While they take many precautions to ensure their safety, these workplace hazards can be a risk for pediatric nurses.
Why do pediatric nurses give appreciation?
Pediatric nurses often receive acknowledgement and appreciation for helping to improve a child's health. Some children may leave handwritten notes or drawings for pediatric nurses, which can become treasured keepsakes for these professionals. When a pediatric nurse helps a child have a positive outcome, they often receive gratitude from the child's parents for their treatment and support. This appreciation and positive feedback can help pediatric nurses feel valued and engaged with their patients.
What is the role of pediatric nurses in healthcare?
Your pediatric nursing skills and affinity for children can make you an effective advocate for children, some of the most vulnerable patients in any healthcare setting , particularly those who are too young to speak or effectively communicate their needs.
Why do parents look to pediatric nurse practitioners?
Parents and other caregivers look to pediatric nurse practitioners for information, guidance, and compassionate support.
What is Walden University's PNP program?
Walden University’s online MSN program’s Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Primary Care specialization can help you take your nursing career to the next level .
Why do you love pediatric nursing?
They can even practice solo. They often enjoy greater autonomy than other pediatric nursing roles.” 1. 10. Continue Your Education. If you like to learn and grow , then another reason to love a pediatric nursing career is for the educational opportunities it provides.
Can a pediatric nurse practitioner make kids?
1. Make Kids No. 1. For pediatric nurse practitioners, it’s children who give the job life. So, if you enjoy, respect, and care about children—from newborns to teens, and the in-betweens—you’ll love being a pediatric nurse practitioner. 2.
What is a pediatric nurse?
Pediatric nurses are nursing professionals who specialize in pediatrics and devote their knowledge, time, and skills to providing health and medical care for children from infancy through their late teens. These nurses work closely alongside physicians and with the families of patients in order to address any concerns, fears, problems, ...
What skills do pediatric nurses need?
Individuals who are considering pursuing a career as a pediatric nurse should possess exceptional communication abilities, especially with children and young people. They should also be able to acutely empathize with parents who have a sick child.
Where Do Pediatric Nurses Work?
Pediatric nurses care for children in a variety of settings, which commonly include:
How to become a pediatric nurse?
Aspiring nurses who might be considering a future as a pediatric nurse should be prepared to first enroll at an accredited university or college and earn a two-year ADN or four-year BSN degree. Upon finishing one of these degree programs and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, you will officially be a nurse. Once you have your RN license, you'll need to acquire some much needed clinical experience in the field, before you take the sit for the certification exam which is administered by the Pediatric Nurse Certification Board. After passing the exam you'll then be officially considered a Certified Pediatric Nurse.
What certifications do PNCB nurses need?
In addition to the PNCB’s pediatric nurse certification, many healthcare facilities also require their nurses to be certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Basic Life Support (BLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
How many years of experience do you need to become a pediatric nurse?
To qualify for the PNCB’s pediatric nurse certification, you must have: 1000 hours of pediatric clinical experience in the previous 2 years AND a minimum of 5 years of experience in pediatric nursing ...
How much do pediatric nurses make?
According to PayScale, pediatric nurses receive an average yearly salary of around $60,000. Salaries will inevitably vary and depend on factors like location of employment, the employing organizations, education level, certifications and credentials, and years of experience.
What is the job of a pediatric nurse?
A day in the life of a pediatric nurse is never boring. Pediatric nurses care for patients from newborns to teens, treating a variety of illnesses and injuries. Take a look at the many tasks pediatric nurses may encounter throughout their days.
How do pediatric nurses finish their day?
Pediatric nurses finish their day by charting and entering more information into EMRs.
Do pediatric nurses make rounds with doctors?
Many pediatric nurses make rounds with doctors at hospitals.
How many pediatric patients per nurse?
Ratios within pediatrics are fortunately tighter than in adult settings, typically 1-4 pediatric patients per nurse. But most children come with loved ones that need to be accounted for in our care as well, whether in doctors' offices or critical care.
Where is Sarah from Penn Nursing?
A New Jersey native, Sarah graduated from Penn Nursing and has been living in San Francisco ever since. She's been an athlete her whole life and continues to be passionate about health, fitness, and making the most of all opportunities.
Why is it important to have families present and actively involved when caring for children?
It is so essential and truly ideal to have families present and actively involved when caring for children. Parents’ knowledge of their children has no boundaries. They advocate for them, protect them, and love them. We look to parents to translate, decipher, and explain a child's actions, words, and habits.
Is it possible to not feel grateful as a pediatric nurse?
It’s impossible not to feel grateful as a pediatric nurse.
What are the characteristics of a pediatric nurse?
People who are sensitive, empathetic, emotionally stable and responsible make excellent pediatric nurses.
What skills do pediatric nurses need?
Pediatric nurses require a wide range of skills, including the ability to remain calm under pressure and communicate easily with both children and adults.
Why do you want to become a pediatric nurse?
These admirable nurses provide care to children from the time they are infants, through childhood, until they are adolescents. Because there are so many conditions and issues that are specific to growing and developing bodies, pediatric nursing requires specialized knowledge to provide the best patient care.
What is pediatric nursing?
Pediatric nurses are Registered Nurses (RNs) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), who decide to pursue specialty training in pediatrics. Doing so allows them to take on roles in which they can work specifically with babies, toddlers, tweens, and teens. Pediatric RNs may work in a hospital’s pediatric department, for example.
How many hours do pediatric nurses work?
In most hospitals, pediatric nurses will work a 12-hour period per shift, and that may stretch into more time if patient needs are high. If the facility uses a three-shift model with overlapping shifts, the pediatric nurse will likely work a ten-hour shift.
How long is the pediatric nurse practitioner program?
Online: No. Program Length: 2 years. Yale University, an Ivy League school founded in 1701, offers its pediatric nurse practitioner-acute care program as both an MSN or post-master's certificate. The master's degree takes two years to complete, so the total program cost could be higher than other options.
How much does a nurse practitioner make?
The BLS also reports that as of May 2019, Nurse Practitioners earn a median annual income of $115,800, though conditions vary by area. Typically, specialty nurses who develop an expertise in one area, like pediatric nursing, earn more than other nurses.
