If you want to work in health care and have a passion for helping children, pediatric nursing may be the career path for you. While this job can be rewarding, it’s not a role you can dive right into. To become a pediatric nurse, you must first complete the required training. To help you better explore this career option, here are a few expectations you should have about working as a children’s nurse.

What Education & Training Do Pediatric Nurses Need?

To become a pediatric nurse, professionals must first meet the credentials required to be a registered nurse. Becoming a registered nurse in New York requires the completion of an RN training program at an NYSED-approved institution. This education should result in an associate degree.

Additionally, students must also complete a required child abuse reporting coursework, as well as infection control coursework. Students must submit an Application for Licensure, along with initial registration fees, to NYSED, and pass the NCLEX examination.

Registered nurses should then apply to take an exam through the Pediatric Nurse Certification Board and pay associated fees. Upon passing, individuals will receive certification and be able to seek employment in the field.

What Are the Responsibilities of Pediatric Nurses?

Children’s nurses work in a variety of environments—including hospitals, doctor’s offices, and client’s homes. These clients may need care for many different reasons, such as chronic illness, infections, injury recovery, and surgical recovery.

These professionals will work with a child’s doctors to develop and administer a care plan. Depending on the specifics of the plan, a pediatric nurse may be expected to record vital measurements, observe symptoms, and collect samples for diagnostic testing. They’ll provide wound care., administer medications, and assist with therapeutic treatments, such as physical therapy.

While many of these duties are similar to that of a standard RN, pediatric specialists take unique approaches to address the specific needs of younger patients. For example, they may adjust care to fit the emotional and developmental needs of a child. They must also exercise patience and compassion to make treatment as comfortable for the child as possible.

Whether you’re recently licensed or a long-time pediatric nurse, J&D Ultracare can introduce you to many unique children’s nursing jobs throughout New York’s Westchester and Orange counties. As an agency specializing in pediatric home care, they make it easy to develop a work routine that fits your schedule. To learn more about their current openings and in-home nursing resources, visit them online. For questions about employment, call (845) 357-4500.