You have always seen yourself caring for children while considering a career as a registered nurse, even though you are aware that they are not the only choice for patients (RN). Pediatric nursing seems to be a perfect match for you, based on your background and interests. You get to spend time with young children and make dangerous medical procedures less frightening.
At school and throughout your training, you will study a lot about pediatric nursing. However, the job comes with unique obstacles, so it is best to be prepared. If you are thinking about a career in pediatric nursing for whatever reason, take a look at this pediatric nursing cheat sheet before starting.
Children aren’t miniature versions of their parents or older siblings
In addition to their physical differences, children are also unique in their development. As a result of their developmental stage, youngsters may not grasp that a finger cut will not result in blood loss, for example. When children are in the hospital and their parents must leave for some time, they may experience separation anxiety.
Children have an incredible capacity for resiliency
When it comes to healing, children are much more resilient than adults. A four-year-old’s reaction to an IV poke may range from tears to giggles in the space of a few seconds. Working in pediatrics gives you the unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the joy of children.
Playing, making jokes, and being a bit silly are just some of the perks of working with children. Additionally, it is beneficial to both the children and the adults involved. It’s hard to put into words how much delight these exchanges may bring to a day.
You will have to keep a professional distance
As a nurse, it is crucial to have a professional distance from all of your patients, as some may not have the most excellent outcomes. On the other hand, working with children might be much more challenging. While some patients will pass away, others may deal with complex family issues, which may be difficult for loving nurses.
It would help if you also cared for your health and well-being
Pediatric nurses may find themselves caring for children with terminal diseases or other very critical health conditions, depending on where they work. Learning to deal with these circumstances constructively may positively influence families, even if you’re not the one to give the terrible news or work with them in the long term.
Even if you manage difficult circumstances with families properly, it is emotionally draining to witness the agony on family members’ faces as you listen and be there with them as they mourn. If you are a nurse, it’s crucial to take care of yourself, so you can return the following day and give your best to your patients and their loved ones.
Your team members may be able to connect to your situation and assist you vocally in expressing your ideas, emotions and experiences following tough days. Additionally, you may be contacted by the charge nurse or chaplain to see how things are going. You can avoid burnout by taking some time out to recharge, spending time with loved ones, and investing in your interests. Go through the tips of caring for your health and well-being.
It is critical to have a positive attitude
The enthusiasm you exude may be detected by even the youngest of listeners. They have an excellent sense of your mood and can notice whether you are impatient, upset, or stressed just by glancing at your face. You must project a fantastic aura to ensure the safety and well-being of your young patients in what may be an unfamiliar and frightening situation.
Families are equally as important as children in your job
The patient’s family is as essential to their rehabilitation as the patient. Therefore communicating with them in the same manner with the kid is vital. A family-centered approach is used by pediatric nurses, which implies that all family members are included, engaged and educated together with the patient. Don’t forget about the patient’s siblings, either! A nurse’s acknowledgment of a patient’s siblings’ feelings and presence might mean a lot to the patient’s family.
If you want to become a pediatric nurse, a lot goes into it. Besides the studies, you should understand what’s expected from you and the role you have to play. Once you have grasped all your responsibilities, a career in pediatric nursing will be well worth it.
