Rewarding Careers Can be Found as a Pediatric Nurse?

Answer 1

One of the most rewarding jobs in the healthcare field is pediatric nurse. A pediatric nurse specializes in caring for children, and also interacts with the child's parents. A pediatric nurse may be an LPN, RN, or nurse practioner. The degree of education the nurse has determines the duties he or she may perform. State law defines these duties.

Becoming an LPN (licensed practical nurse) is the shortest route to becoming a pediatric nurse. Training takes about one year. LPNs provide basic care, such as recording vital signs and changing dressings. While becoming an LPN is the easiest route to becoming a pediatric nurse, it is also the one with more limited opportunities. RNs (registered nurse) and nurse practitioners must have more education. An RN program typically takes two years, and candidates earn either a nursing certificate or an associates degree in nursing. RNs have much greater flexibility in the field than LPNs do; an RN may help perform medical tests, administer medications and treatments, and operate medical machinery. A nurse practitioner has even greater responsibilities. Nurse practitioners typically have a master's degree in nursing, and are able to perform examinations and prescribe medications under the supervision of a physician.

Salaries vary in the field of pediatric nursing. Location affects the payscale, as does the level of the nurse's education. A LPN may start out at a salary of about $33,000, which may advance to $44,000 or more with experience. An RN's starting salary is higher-around $54,000. This can increase to over $70,000 with experience. A nurse practitioner has the highest salary range, starting out at about $75,000 and increasing to about $90,000 with experience.

Pediatric nursing is both rewarding and challenging. If you have an ability to empathize and communicate with children, as well as their parents, and the dedication to complete the necessary education, then a career as a pediatric nurse may be just the thing for you.