How to Become a Pediatric Nurse
If you have a passion for working with children, a career in pediatric nursing might be the right fit for you.
Pediatric nurses engage in the rewarding challenge of caring for young patients at various developmental stages.
To determine if this career path aligns with your goals, explore the educational, licensing, certification, and experiential requirements.
Learn about the steps to become a pediatric nurse, the necessary licenses, recommended certifications, and the responsibilities associated with this profession.
Duration of Education: 2-4 years
Degree Requirement: ADN or BSN
Certification: Pediatric Nursing Certification (Certified Pediatric Nurse – Optional)
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What Is Pediatric Nursing?
Pediatric nurses, who are registered nurses (RNs), specialize in providing care to children from birth to age 18 across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient care centers, schools, and home care. Pediatric nursing is a highly specialized field that demands a deep understanding of pediatric development, medical conditions, and care needs.
The responsibilities of pediatric nurses may vary depending on the setting, but generally, they assess patients, administer treatments and medications, and offer comfort during procedures. They also play a crucial role in educating both patients and their parents or guardians about managing healthcare needs. Pediatric nurses often work in environments such as pediatric intensive care units (PICU), pediatric nursing jobs at outpatient clinics, and pediatric nursing programs that help train new nurses.
Steps to Become a Pediatric Nurse
To embark on a career as a pediatric nurse, follow these key steps:
- Earn an ADN or a BSN degree from an accredited program:
Obtain at least a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or consider graduating from a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. BSN programs offer a comprehensive understanding of nursing practice within the broader healthcare context, providing more career options in the future. - Pass the NCLEX exam to receive RN licensure:
Take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for RNs approximately a month after completing your nursing degree. Employers often require a passing score before hiring, with some allowing you to take the exam by a specified date after hire. - Gain experience in pediatric nursing:
Apply for entry-level positions or pediatric nurse residency programs to accumulate experience. Both types of experience contribute to eligibility for the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board’s Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam. - Consider becoming a certified pediatric nurse:
Apply for pediatric nurse certification from either the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). Certification signifies specialized knowledge and distinguishes you from nurses with only an RN license. Eligibility requires a minimum of two years of nursing experience and an unrestricted license.
Pediatric Nurse Education
While an ADN degree is the minimum requirement for obtaining an RN license, a BSN degree can offer enhanced opportunities for leadership roles, ongoing education, promotions, and higher salaries.
ADN Degree
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate; transcripts; physical exam; drug screening; CPR certification.
- Program Curriculum: Nursing across the lifespan; patient care management; basic nursing skills; anatomy and physiology.
- Time to Complete: Two years.
- Skills Learned: Patient safety; critical thinking; communication; evidence-based practice; patient-centered care.
BSN Degree
Possessing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree can potentially result in a higher salary, increased chances for career advancement, and eligibility for a broader range of job opportunities. For those who have already completed their ADN, enrolling in an RN-to-BSN degree program can facilitate the transition.
- Admission Requirements: Overall GPA of at least 3.0; GPA of 2.75 for science courses; 45 completed credit hours from an accredited university.
- Program Curriculum: Pediatric nursing; nursing leadership; healthcare policy; pharmacology; evidence-based practice.
- Time to Complete: Four years.
- Skills Learned: Behavioral health; communication; professionalism; patient-centered care.
Becoming a Pediatric Nurse: Licensing and Certification
To pursue a career as a pediatric nurse, securing and maintaining an unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in your state is crucial. Familiarize yourself with your state’s specific licensure requirements.
The RN license serves as the foundation for job applications and certifications within your nursing specialization.
Pediatric Nurse Certification:
Pediatric nurses can pursue one of two certifications: Pediatric nursing certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or certified pediatric nurse from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). Certified pediatric nurses are preferred by employers, and certification signifies specialized expertise in pediatric care.
- PNCB Certification: Requires 1,800 clinical hours in pediatric nursing within the past 24 months or five years of pediatric nursing experience, with at least 1,000 hours in the past 24 months.
- ANCC Certification: Requires 2,000 hours of clinical experience and 30 hours of continuing education within the last three years.
Working as a Pediatric Nurse
Pediatric nurses can work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to private practices to outpatient care centers. The pediatric nurse salary can vary by experience, location, and specialization, with pediatric nurses specializing in pediatric intensive care (PICU nurses) potentially earning more.
In hospital settings, many pediatric nurses specialize in areas like oncology, NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), or intensive care. Pediatric nurse jobs are also available in outpatient pediatric care, where nurses may administer vaccinations, conduct routine wellness checks, and provide preventative care.
Pediatric Nursing Career Advancement Opportunities
There are various pediatric nursing career advancement opportunities. Nurses may move into pediatric nurse practitioner roles, where they can provide a higher level of care, including prescribing medications and performing assessments. Nurses may also take on leadership roles, such as charge nurses or nurse managers, or specialize further in areas like pediatric oncology or NICU nursing. Career advancement opportunities also include participation in pediatric nurse residency programs, which help new nurses gain specialized experience.
Pediatric Nurse vs. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: What’s the Difference?
Pediatric nurse and pediatric nurse practitioner roles are distinct, with different levels of responsibility and educational requirements. Pediatric nurses typically have an RN license and focus on providing hands-on care to children. Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs), on the other hand, are advanced practice nurses who have completed additional education, such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing, and have the ability to diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and provide advanced care.
Pediatric Nurse Certification: Requirements and Benefits
Becoming a certified pediatric nurse offers numerous benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher earning potential, and a higher level of recognition within the healthcare community. To become certified, candidates must meet specific experience and education requirements and pass an exam.
Top Pediatric Nursing Schools and Programs
For those looking to enter pediatric nursing or advance in their careers, selecting the right educational program is essential. Top pediatric nursing schools offer both RN and advanced pediatric nurse practitioner programs. These programs provide the knowledge and clinical skills necessary to excel in pediatric nursing. Many of these schools also offer specialized programs in areas like pediatric cardiology, pediatric oncology, and neonatal care.
How to Become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
If you’re already a pediatric nurse and want to advance your career, transitioning to a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) role is a great option. Becoming a PNP requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, along with certification from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Pediatric Nursing Jobs and Career Opportunities
There are many pediatric nursing jobs available across different healthcare settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics to schools and home care. Pediatric nurses can specialize in areas such as pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), outpatient care, or pediatric surgery, offering diverse career opportunities.
How Much Do Pediatric Nurses Earn?
The pediatric nurse salary varies based on factors like location, experience, and specialization. Pediatric nurses in specialized fields such as pediatric intensive care unit (PICU nurses) may earn higher salaries. Additionally, the average salary for pediatric nurses can differ by region, with nurses in major metropolitan areas earning more than those in rural settings.
Skills Required to Be a Successful Pediatric Nurse
Key skills for pediatric nurses include effective communication, empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Pediatric nurses must also be well-versed in pediatric care knowledge, from administering medications to supporting the emotional needs of both children and their families.
Pediatric Nursing Residency Programs: What You Need to Know
A pediatric nurse residency program is a structured program that helps new nurses gain hands-on experience in pediatric care settings. These programs are designed to bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world practice, providing mentorship, support, and training to help nurses succeed in their pediatric nursing careers.
Licensing and Certification: Steps to Becoming a Certified Pediatric Nurse
To become a certified pediatric nurse, follow the steps outlined earlier, including obtaining the required clinical hours and continuing education, and passing the relevant certification exam. Certification is a valuable credential that can open doors to higher-level positions and better job opportunities.
Pediatric Nurse Career Pathways: From ADN to BSN and Beyond
There are various career pathways in pediatric nursing, from starting as an ADN and working your way up to a BSN or pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP). As you gain experience, you can pursue additional certifications, leadership roles, and specialization in fields like pediatric cardiology, neonatology, or pediatric neurology.
Exploring Pediatric Nurse Roles in Different Settings
Pediatric nurses can work in a wide variety of settings. Some may choose to work in outpatient care centers, while others may prefer hospitals, schools, or even home care. Each setting offers different challenges, responsibilities, and work schedules, so it’s important to understand the demands of each when deciding on your ideal career path.
Pediatric Nurse Qualifications: What You Need to Start Your Career
To start your career as a pediatric nurse, you will need to meet certain pediatric nurse qualifications, including obtaining the necessary education (ADN or BSN), gaining clinical experience, and passing the NCLEX exam. Certification as a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) is optional but can greatly enhance your career prospects and earning potential.
By following these steps and gaining the right qualifications, you can successfully launch your career in pediatric nursing and take advantage of the various opportunities for pediatric nurse career advancement and specialization. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills, there are numerous paths to pursue in this rewarding and essential field.
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