How to Become a Pediatric Nurse

Being a good pediatric nurse takes more than a degree and technical skills.

Pediatric nursing requires compassion, patience, and a genuine love for working with children. If you have these qualities, this might be the type of nurse for you to build a rewarding and fulfilling career.

But how exactly do you become a pediatric nurse?

This guide will show you how to become a pediatric nurse and provide other essential information you need to know. Let’s get started.

Steps

If you’re serious about becoming a pediatric nurse, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the educational and certification path you’ll need to follow:

Step 1. Earn your nursing degree.

The first step is obtaining a nursing degree. Which means you have to get into nursing school.

You can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While both degrees qualify you to become a registered nurse (RN), employers often prefer a BSN, which may open more doors for advancement in specialized fields like pediatrics.

Step 2. Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed RN. The exam tests your nursing knowledge and skills, including client care, health promotion, and professional standards.

This test can be very difficult and requires quality NCLEX prep review to pass.

Step 3. Gain experience in pediatric nursing.

Once you’ve become a licensed RN, you should pursue opportunities to gain experience working with children.

Many hospitals offer pediatric units, and you can also explore options in clinics, schools, or community health care settings that serve pediatric populations.

Step 4: Pursue certification.

Obtain a pediatric nurse certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, which requires a certain number of clinical hours in pediatric nursing.

This certification makes you a more competitive candidate for pediatric nursing positions.

Step 5: Continue your education.

Many pediatric nurses pursue advanced degrees, like a Master of Science in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Higher education allows for more career options, like becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) or moving into leadership roles.

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What Do Pediatric Nurses Do?

Pediatric nurses provide medical care to infants, children, and adolescents.

They work closely with pediatricians to diagnose and treat illnesses, administer vaccines, and offer guidance to young clients and their families. Pediatric nurses are essential in creating a comforting environment for children during medical visits.

Responsibilities include:

• Conducting health assessments and exams
• Administering vaccinations and medications
• Monitoring growth and development
• Educating families on health conditions, treatments, and preventive care
• Collaborating with doctors, specialists, and other health care providers
• Offering emotional support to clients and families

Pediatric nurses must be compassionate and skilled communicators. They often work with children who may be frightened or unable to express their feelings.

Pediatric Nurse vs Pediatrician

Pediatric nurses and pediatricians share similar job duties as they care for young clients.

However, there are key differences between the two roles.

• Pediatric nurse: An RN specializing in children’s care. Pediatric nurses typically complete a nursing program (ADN or BSN) and obtain pediatric certification.

• Pediatrician: A doctor of medicine (MD) or osteopathic medicine (DO) who completes medical school and several years of residency focused on pediatrics. Pediatricians diagnose illnesses, prescribe treatments, and oversee the overall medical care of children.

Both professions are vital to child health care, but their scopes of practice differ significantly.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Pediatric Nurse in the US?

The timeline to become a pediatric nurse depends on the educational path you choose.

An ADN can take about two years, while a BSN typically takes four. After earning your degree, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN and gain experience in pediatric nursing.

Becoming a pediatric nurse can take three to six years, depending on your degree, the time it takes to pass the NCLEX, and how quickly you gain pediatric experience.

Is It Hard to Be a Pediatric Nurse?

Pediatric nursing is challenging but incredibly rewarding.

You must prepare to handle the emotional toll of caring for sick children and supporting their families through difficult times.

Additionally, pediatric nurses need excellent communication and problem-solving skills. This is because they must often explain complex medical conditions to parents and caregivers in a way they can understand.

The technical aspects of pediatric nursing, such as performing medical procedures on small children or infants, also require specialized training and practice. Despite these challenges, many pediatric nurses find the experience of helping children heal fulfilling.

What’s the Average Salary for a Pediatric Nurse?

The average pediatric nurse’s salary varies depending on location, education level, and experience.

According to recent data, the median salary for pediatric nurses in the United States is $76,348. Nurses with advanced certifications or higher education, such as PNPs, may earn even more.

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Ready to Become a Pediatric Nurse?

Becoming a pediatric nurse requires dedication and passion for working with children.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, SimpleNursing offers comprehensive resources to help you study, prepare, and succeed in nursing school.

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