Pediatric nurse complete career guide

Becoming a pediatric nurse

Pediatric nurses are responsible for the care of children from infancy into their adolescence. Job duties are similar to those of most nurses – including patient assessment, specimen collection for diagnostic testing, assisting in the development of treatment plans, administering medication, and providing education and support to patients and their caretakers. However, due to the patient age group, the amount and type of care needed are much more specialized. Child development and conditions are treated and observed differently than in adults. Because communication can often be a barrier, a pediatric nurse must be patient, calm, and have the ability to pick up on non-verbal cues.

Child development and conditions are treated and observed differently than in adults.

Education programs are comprised of nursing, health, and science-based curriculum in addition to general studies. Pediatric nurses commonly begin working in hospitals or medical centers where 24-hour coverage is needed. Generally, 8 to 12-hour shifts, holiday and weekend rotations, with on-call availability is required. As experience is gained, some nurses seek positions in surgical centers, clinics, doctor’s offices, and schools. Depending on the type of facility and previous work experience, it is possible to find a position with a more standard Monday through Friday, 8-hour workday.

Ideally, pediatric nurses have a natural connection with children and the ability to stay composed in stressful situations. It is essential to keep patients calm, earn their trust, be supportive and informative.

If you feel passionate about healthcare, have a clear understanding of children and their needs, and enjoy working with them, this could be the career to pursue. Treating patients at vulnerable times in their young lives can be gratifying for those who desire to help others: as such, this field is staffed by intelligent, driven professionals who are committed to the work they do.

Education requirements to become a pediatric nurse

At a minimum, pediatric nurses have an associate degree in nursing (ADN); however, most pursue the route of a bachelor’s in science in nursing (BSN). Pediatric nurses need to be licensed as registered nurses (RN) which requires completion and passing of the NCLEX-RN exam by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. We recommend checking your program is accredited before enrolling as this ensures the knowledge you gain meets the needs of the position. The cost of the following degrees reflects the variation in course options, attendance, program format, and type of college.

Associate degree in nursing (ADN)

This degree is generally completed within 2 years of full-time study and is ideal for those with an interest in healthcare, yet unable to dedicate the time necessary for a BSN. Coursework includes liberal arts requirements as well as many entry-level nursing courses. Programs focus on teaching the skills and standards necessary for nursing including:

• terminology
• basic lab practice
• anatomy
• bedside care
• microbiology and immunology
• medical-surgical nursing
• pediatric nursing
• psychiatric nursing
• maternal-newborn nursing
• community health
• health assessments
• professional issues

This program generally costs students anywhere from $12,000 to $30,000 and is available on-campus or online at community colleges and some 4-year colleges. Note, online students are required to attend labs and clinical rotations in person because these course components incorporate work experience hours in a number of clinical settings or facilities.

When choosing a school to attend, be sure to look into program accreditation and the NCLEX pass rates.

When choosing a school to attend, be sure to look into program accreditation and the NCLEX pass rates. Passing the NCLEX to become an RN with an ADN can provide the opportunity to expand your knowledge and future work options by earning specialty certifications in different areas of expertise.

Bachelor’s in science in nursing (BSN)

A BSN can provide you with the necessary tools and education most employers seek and open the door to progress into administrative or supervisory roles. Students without college experience can anticipate 4 years of full-time study to complete the program, with tuition costing between $40,000 and $100,000. This degree is offered by many 4-year colleges and is also available partially online, with a requirement of in-person attendance of labs and clinical rotations. Students with previous college or healthcare experience may be considered for accelerated programs.

A BSN involves a more comprehensive look into healthcare, decision making, patient management, ethics, legal issues, as well as general studies. Coursework typically includes:

• anatomy
• pharmacology
• leadership and management
• research and statistics
• pathophysiology
• psychology

Students are required to do clinical hours or rotations which vary by program. During clinical hours, students spend an allocated number of hours in the field shadowing RNs as they work. This allows students to apply their knowledge in the workplace, helps to increase confidence, gain relevant work experience, and offers networking opportunities to students for future jobs. Most clinical hours take place between multiple facilities providing students with a broad range of experience.

NCLEX-RN exam

A registered nurse is a licensed nurse with an ADN or BSN, who has passed the NCLEX-RN exam. This test thoroughly assesses the skills and expertise necessary to become a nurse. NCLEX-RN questions are based on different categories including:

• management of care
• safety and infection control
• health promotion and maintenance
• psychosocial management
• basic care and comfort
• pharmacological therapy
• nutrition
• risk reduction
• physiological adaptation

Exam results can be expected about 6 weeks after testing. If passed, a license to practice as an RN will be issued.

Masters of science in nursing (MSN)

Although not required to become a pediatric nurse, there are opportunities to further your education in this career by pursuing an MSN. There are several pathways to obtain this graduate degree depending on the level of education previously acquired.

With a BSN, coursework entails an additional 2 years of study. Depending on the school, tuition could cost between $35,000 and $60,000. Coursework helps develop specific skills at a higher level, and generally includes:

• midwifery
• disability studies
• mental health assessment
• nursing education
• anesthesiology

Why pursue a career in pediatric nursing

In all settings, pediatric nurses care for children to provide them with the comfort and encouragement necessary under difficult circumstances. Duties include assessing and planning patient intervention, providing care prior to and following procedures, evaluating vitals, managing emergencies, monitoring and administering medication, obtaining patient samples, treating wounds, supervising inexperienced staff, record taking, and being the patient’s support system.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills are a necessity. Candidates ned to be capable of managing both the needs of the patients and their caregivers.

Those interested in this career should be in good health and enjoy teamwork. The position can be both physically and emotionally demanding, therefore it is important to be naturally resilient and have the endurance to keep up with the fast pace.

Those requiring a flexible work schedule may not be a good fit for the position as many pediatric nurses begin their careers working multiple shifts and long hours. Some positions in the field involve travel and a part-time commitment.

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