Between resolving unique health challenges and improving the lives of children, being a pediatric nurse can be both an exciting and rewarding career choice. But while this job offers many benefits, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about the role if you’re exploring it for the first time. If you’re considering a career in pediatric home care, here are a few questions that are often asked by prospective nurses.

4 FAQ About Careers in Pediatric Nursing

What common tasks are completed by pediatric nurses?

Pediatric nurses have many of the same responsibilities as other nursing professionals. However, they focus specifically on the care of infants, children, and teenagers. Throughout the job, these specialists can expect to assist with medication management, medical testing, and wound care. They may also help with physical therapy needs, communicate with pediatricians, and assist with personal tasks—such as bathing, feeding, and moving around.

How do you become a pediatric nurse?

To become a pediatric nurse, you must first earn a Registered Nurse (RN) degree from an accredited institution. Next, you must pass a certification exam to earn your license. For additional certification, you should also consider training in pediatric care. While it is not necessary, some prefer to continue their education and earn a Master’s or Doctoral Degree as a Nurse Practitioner, as this can expand skill sets and increase earning opportunities.

What kind of personality should a pediatric nurse have?

Apart from the proper training, a good pediatric nurse should have a compassionate demeanor, as they will be working with children—and their families—who are dealing with various health concerns. These professionals tend to enjoy working with younger patients and know how to make health care processes fun and kid-friendly. Given that their clients are younger, these nurses must also have a high degree of patience.

Where can a qualified pediatric nurse work?

Pediatric nurses can work in many different environments. For example, some may work directly for pediatricians as a routine day job. Others may find it more stimulating to work in a hospital environment within a children’s medicine department. Those who are looking to provide one-on-one care may also consider a pediatric home care position in which they assist directly in the patient’s home.

If you’re interested in exploring exciting and rewarding careers as a pediatric nurse, look to the employment opportunities at J&D Ultracare. Serving the Hudson Valley and Bronx, NY area, our home health care agency is ideal for any professionals living within the Westchester, Orange, and Monroe County regions. In addition to offering stable employment and competitive rates, we provide several job benefits—including continuing education and training, health insurance, 401(k)s, and referral bonus incentives. Visit us online to learn more about our nursing jobs or call us at (845) 357-4500 to speak directly with a friendly representative.