Registered nurses who work with pediatric patients can perform examinations and take samples for laboratory testing and vital signs. A pediatric nurse cares for sick and injured children, administers immunizations, monitors development, and counsels parents. A variety of learning methodologies are included to cater to every learning style, including: 1. In addition, these courses make it easier for the student to begin a career in pediatric nursing. Pay the fee ($295 the first time) and apply. This means that the exam determines the nurse’s genuine knowledge of nursing practice and theories. You can find a child nursing course to suit you using our Course Finder tool. © EveryNurse, LLC. Live Simulation 4. Back. A pediatric nurse’s primary duties are to perform screenings to ensure that the young patient is developing at a normal rate. CPNs also possess the ability to teach caregivers how to prevent health issues in children and create a safe environment in the home. Pediatric nurses dedicate their career to working with children of all ages, from infancy through the teen years. Regardless of the setting, these nurses must possess the skills necessary to offer both education and comfort to patient’s families. The pediatric nurse works closely with doctors and other medical staff to ensure high-quality patient care. To secure a position with a reputable facility, a pediatric nurse should be able to supply demonstrated evidence of his or her rapport with children, previous experience with juvenile patients, and methods for soothing and working with concerned parents. Pediatric nursing courses include lectures and research, but students will also participate in clinical training. New course dates will be offered for Fall 2020. EveryNurse.org is an advertising-supported site. A pediatric nurse may ask parents to adjust their child’s diet and encourage them to take part in physical activity. Newark, New Brunswick, & Blackwood, NJ The test, which is computerized, is scored by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, a non-profit organization. Once the student has passed the exam, the nurse may begin as a registered nurse, preferably in a pediatric environment. An effective CPN can communicate with parents, doctors, and other healthcare professionals. After graduating from a nursing program, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Institution. Additionally, the pediatric nurse understands that children’s bodies react differently to medications, illnesses, and injuries, and he or she has the ability to adjust proportions accordingly. You can pursue a variety of educational paths to become a pediatric nurse. To become a certified pediatric nurse, the RN must take and pass an exam administered by the Pediatric Nurse Certification Board. These responsibilities are similar to those of other nurses; however, because of their patients’ young age and developmental level, pediatric nurses must take a different approach. If the disability is permanent, the pediatric nurse prepares the patient and family by supplying coping strategies and resources for reentering the community and the school setting. National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), Minimum of 1,800 hours of pediatric clinical experience completed in the past 24 months prior to sitting for the certification exam, OR. Like the CPN certification, the CPNP-PC certification establishes a specific set of standards and tests nurses on them. But, most importantly, pediatric nurses can communicate well with children, listening to their health issues and calming their fears of the medical setting, the doctor, or their illness or injury. Back. To become certified, a prospective nurse must take the following steps: After they apply, applicants receive a 90-day window in which to schedule the exam. Nurses and doctors in these units have the advanced knowledge necessary to care for children who are critically ill or severely injured. Through lecture and simulation, students will learn how to gather a pediatric health history, utilize examination techniques specific to pediatrics, and apply common developmental assessment tools appropriate to the patient’s age from birth through late adolescence. Online pediatric nursing courses are available though graduate-level certificates, in addition to bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs. The best CPNs have patience, compassion, and empathy, which children can understand and appreciate. To successfully find a position, a nurse should have a resume, cover letter, university transcripts, and a list of references, all of which should be prepared in advance of receiving licensure.