what course do i need to take.to.become a pediatric nurse

by Prof. Zion West 4 min read

To become a Pediatric Nurse, either an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required. It's also required to become licensed. This can be done by passing the Pediatric Nurse certification exam.

To become a Pediatric Nurse, either an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required. It's also required to become licensed. This can be done by passing the Pediatric Nurse certification exam.

Full Answer

How long do you need to go to college to be a pediatric nurse?

To become a pediatric nurse, you will first need to complete either your associate of science in nursing (ASN/ADN) or your Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN). Once you complete your nursing school studies, you will need to register for and pass the national certification exam for registered nursing, or NCLEX-RN.

What GPA you need to become a pediatric nurse?

Oct 10, 2019 · The requirements to become a pediatric nurse may be broken down into 7 steps: Understand the specialized role of a pediatric nurse. Earn your nursing degree. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Become a registered nurse (RN) Gain experience in a pediatric facility. Take the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) exam.

How much schooling does a pediatric nurse need?

Jan 10, 2022 · The first step for becoming any type of nurse is to become an RN, or Registered Nurse. From there, you can go into different specialty areas like pediatric nursing. To become a licensed RN, you must complete an approved program of study (either a bachelor’s or associate degree program), and pass the NCLEX-RN.

What skills do you need to be a pediatric nurse?

Pediatric nurses work across a breadth of locations. According to the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, almost 60% of certified pediatric nurses work in children’s hospitals. 4 Because the young patients at those hospitals need pediatric nurses, the numbers make sense. Most of the remainder of the pediatric nursing workforce is spread over outpatient care in …

Part One What Is A Pediatric Nurse?

Pediatric nurses are usually Registered Nurses (RN) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), who decide to pursue specialty training in pedia...

Part Two What Is The Salary Range For Pediatric Nurses?

As of May 2015, the median annual salary for RNs is $67,490, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) . The BLS also reports that Nurse Pr...

Part Three What Is The Career Outlook For A Pediatric Nurse?

Nursing will continue to be an in-demand field, because of the impending nursing shortage and the aging population. Therefore, RN jobs are predicte...

Part Five What Does A Pediatric Nursing Job Look like?

One of the real perks of becoming a pediatric nurse is that you can choose from all sorts of employment opportunities, as long as there are babies...

Part Six Where Can I Learn More About Pediatric Nursing jobs/careers?

To learn more about pediatric nursing careers, it’s a good idea to explore the resources offered by the various professional associations. Here are...

What degree do you need to be a pediatric RN?

They need to have at minimum an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) and be certified as Registered Nurses in order to practice in this role.

How long does it take to become a pediatric NP?

Duke's NP programs, including its pediatric NP-primary care MSN, are also among the best in the world. The pediatric NP MSN takes just one year to complete, comes in both part-time and full-time formats, and uses a hybrid of online courses and onsite clinicals and simulations.

What does it mean to be a pediatric nurse?

In addition, being a pediatric nurse means that you’ll have to know how to handle the sensitivities and limitations of the age of the patient you’re caring for. You’ll have to be a great communicator with a comforting bedside manner who can inform and educate worried parents.

How much does a nurse practitioner make?

The BLS also reports that as of May 2019, Nurse Practitioners earn a median annual income of $115,800, though conditions vary by area. Typically, specialty nurses who develop an expertise in one area, like pediatric nursing, earn more than other nurses.

Where is Vanderbilt University?

Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University has a prime location in Nashville, Tennessee, and is home to one of the best medical facilities in the region. Nurses who enroll in the pediatric NP MSN program complete clinical at Vanderbilt and in the nearby area, including in Kentucky and Alabama.

What is pediatric nursing?

Pediatric nurses are Registered Nurses (RNs) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), who decide to pursue specialty training in pediatrics. Doing so allows them to take on roles in which they can work specifically with babies, toddlers, tweens, and teens. Pediatric RNs may work in a hospital’s pediatric department, for example.

How do I become a nurse?

To become a licensed RN, you must complete an approved program of study (either a bachelor’s or associate degree program), and pass the NCLEX-RN.

How many hours do you need to be a pediatric nurse?

It’s a three-hour test with 175 multiple-choice questions.

What is a pediatric nurse?

Pediatric nurses are professionals who are skilled at addressing the medical needs of children in an empathetic way. They communicate with the child and family as they oversee their healthcare over time. Through advanced specialized training, registered nurses (RNs) can tailor their nursing skill set to focus on the unique needs of children.

What are the different types of pediatric nurses?

Pediatric nursing has specialties that focus on the needs of specific types of patients. A few examples include: 1 Oncology: Childhood cancer rates have continued to climb in recent decades. 3 Pediatric oncology nurses help patients and families as they battle these life-threatening diseases. 2 Pediatric intensive care unit: PICU nurses provide care for critically ill or severely injured young patients who require intensive monitoring and invasive procedures. 3 Rehabilitation: Children with disabilities, whether temporary or permanent, receive physical rehabilitation with the goal to help the child achieve a sense of independence in their physical movements and life skills.

How long does it take to get a BSN?

The first step is obtaining a college degree. You can typically earn a BSN degree in three to five years. Another path is to get an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), with the option to later transition into a BSN bridge program.

How long does it take to get a masters in nursing?

You can earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) over two to three years, depending on the specialization you choose. An MSN does not require any additional certification. In addition to or instead of getting an MSN, you can also consider pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.

What is the role of a nurse in a child's life?

The nurse may also serve as a source of support for parents, listening and advising on parental concerns about behavioral and developmental milestones.

Is there a shortage of pediatric nurses?

As the United States continues to face a nursing shortage, the demand for pediatric nurses remains positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of all registered nurses in the country is projected to increase by 7% between 2019 and 2029. That growth rate is almost twice as fast as the projected rate for all ...

How much does it cost to become a pediatric nurse?

2 Once approved to take the test, registration and an exam fee are required (currently $200 or varies depending on other fees required by the state where the exam is administered). 3

What skills do pediatric nurses need?

Pediatric nurses, as RNs, may also need these specific skills when dealing with minor patients and their families: Critical-thinking skills – Nurses must evaluate changes in the health status of patients and determine corrective action when necessary and when to consult another professional for a referral.

What is a CTU degree?

Colorado Technical University (CTU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). CTU’s RN-to-BSN program is designed to help nurses prepare and develop knowledge and skills to pursue practice options for a variety of clinical and administrative environments.

How long does it take to get a BSN in nursing?

A BSN generally takes four years to complete. 2. While it isn't always required to begin as a pediatric nurse, some BSN students go on to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

What is pediatric nursing?

Pediatric nurses care for children of all ages in a variety of healthcare settings. These specialty nurses must be knowledgeable about growth and development as they care to an individual child’s developmental level.

What are the skills needed to be a nurse?

Good communication skills – Effective communication is needed when dealing with patients, especially children, to understand his or her concerns and assess health conditions. A nurse must also be able to clearly explain instructions to his or her patients. Compassion and empathy – Nurses should be caring and understanding when looking ...

What is a PICU?

Children who require more frequent or invasive monitoring, such as those with severe or life-threatening conditions, are cared for in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). Professionals working in the PICU generally have advanced knowledge and training in the care of critically ill children. 1.

How long does it take to become a pediatric nurse practitioner?

Many NPs choose to pursue a BSN over an associate degree in nursing (ADN). A bachelor's degree takes longer to complete — about four years for full-time students — but BSN-holders can directly enroll in graduate programs.

How long does it take to become a pediatric NP?

If you are considering becoming a pediatric NP, you can find out exactly how to get your start with this guide. how long to become. 6 years.

What are the requirements for a DNP?

Doctor of Nursing Practice 1 Admission Requirements: Some schools require DNP applicants to hold a master's, while others accept students with bachelor's degrees. All incoming students should hold RN licensure and sometimes professional experience. DNP programs can prove competitive, so a higher undergraduate or master's GPA can increase applicants' chances. 2 Program Curriculum: Often the curriculum focuses on a specialty area, like advanced clinical pediatric care or leadership. In addition to clinical rotations, DNP candidates complete a research project or dissertation before graduating. 3 Time to Complete: This varies for each student and program, especially since many DNP candidates enroll part time. However, students can generally graduate in 3-4 years. 4 Skills Learned: DNP students not only build on the advanced skills that they already possess, but they also learn about executive leadership, strategy, and improving patient outcomes.

Why do I need a DNP instead of an MSN?

Some nurses choose a DNP instead of an MSN for their graduate requirement. A doctorate takes longer, but it allows students to study more advanced material and carry out their own research.

What is a pediatric NP?

Primary care pediatric NPs offer general care to children, while acute care professionals provide treatment for kids with chronic or life-threatening conditions. Unlike registered nurses (RNs), NPs can independently meet with and diagnose patients.

Who is Elizabeth Clarke?

Elizabeth Clarke, FNP, MSN, RN, MSSW, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. A native of Boston, Massachusetts, Clarke tired of the cold and snowy winters and moved to Coral Gables, Florida in order to complete her undergraduate degree in nursing at the University of Miami.

What is the NCLEX exam?

The National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) evaluates aspiring nurses' knowledge and skills. Individuals must pass this exam to apply for state RN licensure. You can find a full guide to the NCLEX here.

What is a pediatric nurse?

Pediatric nurses are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients from birth through adolescence. They must have a deep knowledge of child growth and development as diseases and conditions in children often present and are treated differently than in adults.

What is the most common position in pediatrics?

Pediatric registered nurses perform many of the same functions of registered nurses, though the way they perform them is often very different since their patients are often more vulnerable and require great family and guardian support.

What are the duties of a RN?

An RN often performs the following duties, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics: 1 1 Assess patients’ conditions 2 Record patients’ medical histories and symptoms 3 Observe patients and record the observations 4 Administer patients’ medicines and treatments 5 Help perform diagnostic tests and analyze the results 6 Teach patients and their families how to manage illnesses or injuries

Why are kids so resilient?

Kids are resilient. “Kids are very resilient and they heal more quickly than adults. This can be an advantage as health outcomes are generally more promising in pediatrics,” says Tyler Dean, certified pediatric nurse and Associate Professor at Rasmussen College.

Is nursing good for kids?

Not only is that good for the kids, it’s good for you too. Nursing can be very stressful and these interactions can bring joy to a normal day. 3. You’ll be working with families just as much as you will with children.

What is the job of an intensive care nurse?

Many of the core duties remain the same—monitoring and assessing patient statuses, administering medications or treatments and working quickly to help stabilize a patient’s condition if they take a turn for the worse.

Can a pediatric nurse specialize in adult care?

Just as nurses can specialize when working in adult care, pediatric nurses can too. Whether you’re interested in intensive care, emergency care, orthopedics, oncology, trauma, gastroenterology, home healthcare, the NICU or case management, it’s likely you’ll be able to find a pediatric department that aligns with your interests.

What is anatomy class?

The class consists of a rigorous survey of human anatomy that teaches various parts of the body, human functions and how they interact. Future pediatric nurses who take anatomy and physiology in high school may benefit from an early start in a nursing program by learning advanced human sciences.

What is the importance of health classes in high school?

Health class teaches how to care for the body, effective communication and how to be a positive contribution to the family. Health class also teaches students how to utilize community resources like substance abuse support groups.

What is anatomy and physiology?

Anatomy and physiology is an advanced science course that students should take who plan on earning a college degree in health sciences, biological sciences or if they plan on entering the nursing field, according to Vale High School. The class consists of a rigorous survey of human anatomy that teaches various parts of the body, human functions and how they interact. Future pediatric nurses who take anatomy and physiology in high school may benefit from an early start in a nursing program by learning advanced human sciences.

What is the health class?

Health class also teaches students how to utilize community resources like substance abuse support groups. The class also teaches students how to respond to emergencies, eat healthy diets and understand life cycle stages. It is important for any aspiring nurse to have this knowledge before attending nursing school because it provides ...

What is a nurse responsible for?

Nurses are responsible for writing charts, communicating via writing with the charge nurse and sending written reports to doctors regarding their patient's status and well-being. High school English classes teach students how to properly structure a writing piece and how to write clearly, and they help to increase a student's vocabulary -- skills ...

What is the psychology course?

One of the many subjects an introduction to psychology course teaches is child cognitive growth and development. Pediatric nurses care for children who range in age and who have a variety of illnesses, including some that are life threatening. Understanding how a child's mind develops and how a child responds to a number ...

Who is Jen Saunders?

Jen Saunders is an entrepreneur and veteran journalist who covers a wide range of topics. She made the transition to writing after having spent 12 years in England where she studied and taught English literature. Related Articles. High School Credits Needed to Become a Psychologist.

How many years of nursing experience do you need to become a pediatric nurse?

A minimum of 5 years as an RN in pediatric nursing and 3,000 hours in pediatric nursing within the last 5 years with a minimum of 1000 hours within the past 24 months (use only if unable to meet the above option) Hours earned in a pediatric nursing residency program count toward the requirement.

What is the PNCB CPN exam?

Ready to reach for the gold standard in pediatric nursing? Since 1989, PNCB's Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) exam offers the most recognized, respected credential for pediatric RNs. Increase your confidence, professional credibility, chances for advancement, and feelings of accomplishment when you become a CPN.

When do you need to recertify your wallet card?

Recertification is annual, so start planning how you will fulfill requirements now. You recertify between November 1 and January 31 prior to the expiration date on your online wallet card. If you passed this year, you won't need to recertify until the next calendar year.

Does PNCB charge for no pass no pay?

The following fees apply for self-paying candidates. PNCB encourages you to share information about our no-risk No Pass, No Pay benefit with your employer. These fees also apply if you have already used a No Pass, No Pay charge code twice in a single employer's 12-month agreement period.

Do you list your nursing degree after your name?

We suggest listing your highest nursing degree right after your name, then licensure, then certification. Honors like FAAN come last . If you have a non-nursing degree, this would come after your highest nursing degree. For multiple certifications, nurses usually list them in order of when they were achieved.

Do hours count toward pediatric nursing residency?

Hours earned in a pediatric nursing residency program count toward the requirement. Pediatric nursing experience must have taken place in U.S. or Canadian facilities. However, if you possess an active, current unencumbered U.S. RN license, international practice experience is accepted.