Pediatric RN Job Description
Treating children as a pediatric RN is a rewarding career. The RN performs a wide variety of services to children in her care, including education and treatment. While a career as a pediatric RN can be gratifying, understanding what the job entails will help you decide whether the specialty is right for you.
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Types
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The pediatric RN has opportunities to further specialize within different departments. A neo-natal unit cares for newborns. The pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) attends to patients that require critical care. Pediatric RNs can specialize by disease, such as cancer. Children with cancer are treated in the pediatric oncology department.
Education
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Pediatric RNs attain either an associate or bachelor degree in general nursing. Graduates then take the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to obtain a license for practice in the United States. Schools don’t offer a specific RN degree in pediatrics. Students rotate through several hospital departments during school and can request a pediatrics rotation. RNs seeking a pediatrics specialty learn the majority of skills after being hired by a health care facility.
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Function
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A pediatric RN assists the physician with diagnosing and treating patients under the age of eighteen. The job involves educating the family and child patient about preventative measures and treatment of illness. Specific pediatric RN tasks vary depending on the nurse’s health care facility and department. RNs administer medication, start and maintain intravenous (IV) lines, observe and record patient status and treat patients under the supervision of a physician. Pediatric RNs require patience when dealing with children. For example, a pediatric RN calms a frightened child before administering a vaccination.
Potential
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According to PayScale.com, salary for pediatric RNs vary depending on location of employment. The national average ranges from $42,000 to $65,000 per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of RNs is expected to grow "much faster than the average." RN jobs are expected to increase by 22 percent from 2008 to 2018.
Pediatric RNs can pursue a master’s degree and become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. The PNP diagnoses and treats patients under the supervision of a physician. A pediatric RN focuses on general care and follows a treatment plan. The PNP instructs the RN on how to treat the patient. Schools that offer an advanced degree to PNP licensure often require one to two years of general nursing experience prior to applying. According to PayScale.com, PNPs can expect an annual salary between $66,000 to $86,000.
Considerations
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Treating children isn’t like treating tiny adults. A pediatric RN doesn’t spend the day playing with children and rocking babies. The job is physically demanding and emotionally draining. A pediatric RN not only treats the patient, but works with concerned parents and family members. A high level of communication and empathy is required for the job.
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