Working with children can be very rewarding. Pediatric nurses take care of their young patients and try to calm their fears. They often work in hospitals alongside other pediatricians and in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Pediatric nurses are qualified nurses with a nursing degree. They may also earn a qualification that requires more study and additional exams to pass. After receiving the qualification as a nurse, it is possible to continue studying to become a pediatric nurse.
Steps
Step 1. Get certified as a nurse
- Do your research to find universities with the best programs that meet your financial requirements and allow you to attend in terms of geographic location.
- Sign up for the chosen course. You may not be admitted to the best universities. So be sure to enroll in different institutions for the entrance exam.
- After accessing the nursing course, try to attend the classes most relevant to the pediatric field.
- Use all the time available to study aspects of the pediatric field. Read various books, browse online sites, talk to teachers and pediatric nurses you already know.
- Consider a specialist degree in Pediatric Sciences.
Step 2. Become a practicing nurse recognized by the state board of nursing
Research the state requirements to be able to practice this profession.
Step 3. Get experience taking special care of children
- Apply for work in appropriate places, such as pediatric offices or pediatric care institutions.
- Sign up for an internal course suitable for the training of pediatric nurses.
- Volunteer in the pediatric sector of your local hospital.
Step 4. Become a Certified Pediatric Nurse
It serves to show that she is qualified in pediatric care and in the education of children and their families.
- Attend special pediatric courses.
- Pass the exam to become a Certified Pediatric Nurse. The website of the Pediatric Nursing Certification Council provides valid information for finding exam locations, fees to be paid, procedures for enrolling and passing the exam.
- Receive practicing pediatric nurse certification from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board after passing the exam.
Step 5. Determine how to work after receiving this qualification
- If you want to work in a pediatric office or become a university lecturer, you will need to focus on primary care services.
- If you want to treat acute or chronic diseases, or very severe patients, you will need to focus on specific pathologies and services, such as the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).
