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Pediatric Nurse School and Program Information



Pediatric Nurses are responsible for the care of young children, and of course, helping parents to understand their children's medical needs and to better care for them at home, too.  Being an advocate for young patients is a very big part of the job, since children can only speak so much for themselves and both they and their parents may have little understanding of their medical condition and needs.  Pediatric Nurses educate parents on the general medical needs of growing children and any specific conditions their child may be dealing with.  They put children at ease in the hospital or physician's office and coordinate their care.  These nurses promote the overall health and well-being of children, and implement treatment plans for the acute and chronic illnesses they asses and evaluate.
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Pediatric Nursing Qualifications, Education, and Training

 

Because they deal so much with young children, Pediatric Nurses need to of course enjoy spending time with children, as well as have the patience and fortitude necessary for dealing with uncomfortable, scared, or sometimes just plain bored young people.  
 
All Pediatric Nurses are Registered Nurses (RN).  There are several paths to becoming an RN.  Some nurses will get a bachelor of science in Nursing (BSN) degree at an accredited four-year college or university.  Others will pursue an associates degree in nursing at a junior or community college.  Still others will get a registered nursing diploma through a vocational or technical school, but diploma programs are less common.  After completing the level of education you choose at an approved nursing program, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed. At that point, many nurses will simply seek employment as a pediatric nurse at a hospital or other medical facility, and complete further training on the job.  Others may complete a residency as a pediatric nurse and then pursue certification as a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) either before seeking employment or as they start their careers.

Pediatric Nursing Job Outlook

All nursing positions remain in high demand, and pediatric nursing is no different.  According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for a registered nurse was $62,450.  Those with more education or certification will stand to make more.  The top 10% were making over $92,000 annually.
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