Children with chronic health conditions may require the assistance of a pediatric nurse to maintain wellness or complete daily tasks. The relationship between a young patient and their caregiver is unique and requires patience, understanding, and open communication. If you’re exploring pediatric nursing careers, here are a few tips to ensure your patients are comfortable and in turn, receive the care they need. 

4 Communication Tips for Pediatric Nurses Helping Young Patients

1. Establish a Rapport

Before jumping right in to treat a child, take the time to get to know your young patient and show that you care. This can involve asking about their day, commenting on their favorite toys, discussing your background, and asking how they’re feeling. By creating an on-going dialogue, your young patient will feel at ease in your presence and will trust you when administering medicine or checking their vitals. 

2. Allow Young Patients to Assist

Often, pediatric nurses will administer the same treatment or tests on a daily basis. Allow the child to participate when possible with simple tasks so they feel involved in the process and less apprehensive about the steps. Letting a child mimic procedures like using a stethoscope on a stuffed animal can also break the ice. 

3. Create a Soothing Environment

Instead of a sterile exam room or hospital environment, try to make the treatment space fun and colorful. When possible, make sure there are books, toys, crayons, and paper available to play with. Before starting an exam, kneel or squat so you’re eye to eye with your patient. This can reduce anxiety as they’ll feel as though you’re on the same level. 

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

When your patient has a good temperature, endures a shot, or takes their medication, provide plenty of encouragement and positive reinforcement. By celebrating a child and letting them know they’re a good patient, they’ll feel proud and stress about being sick or needing help can slowly fade away. 

If you’re a pediatric nurse or interested in exploring in-home nursing careers, our team at J&D Ultracare welcomes your passion and expertise. Proudly serving residents throughout the Bronx and the Hudson Valley of New York, we’ve earned a reputation for providing top-notch care and excellent benefits, such as educational in-services, full medical and dental coverage, and a 401(k) plan, that keep our dedicated caregivers happy, engaged and prepared for fulfilling work. To learn about current openings, call today at (845) 357-4500 to schedule an interview. For more information on our competitive rates and the patients we serve throughout Orange, Monroe, and Westchester counties, visit our website.