How to Become a Pediatric Nurse

What education do you need to become a pediatric nurse?

An Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. In the U.S., you can choose between an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree, which normally takes 2 years, or a Bachelor of Sciences in Nursing (BSN) degree, which typically takes 4 years. If you get a 4-year degree, employers are slightly more likely to hire you, but it’s up to you how long you’d like to be in school. While you can go on to pursue a Master’s or Doctorate in nursing practice, it’s not required to become a pediatric nurse. If you would like to get an even higher education, you may be qualified to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.

What licenses do you need to become a pediatric nurse?

You need to become a Registered Nurse (RN). After you finish your degree, you need to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) exam to get your official status as a nurse. The exam is offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), and it takes about 6 hours to complete. To sign up for the exam, visit https://www.ncsbn.org/exams/exam-contacts.page.

You may need to become a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN). Some states require you to get to CPN status before you start working as a pediatric nurse. To become a CPN, you need to already be an RN and have at least 1,800 hours of documented experience in pediatrics during the previous 2 years. You also need to pass an exam to become a CPN through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). Even if your state doesn't require CPN status, it’s a good idea to get it anyway. It proves that you’re knowledgeable within your field and it can set you apart from your peers.

Do you need any special licenses or certifications?

They’re not required, but they can help advance your career. There are numerous specialized certifications available for pediatric nurses, and they usually entail some sort of coursework and passing an examination. In some cases, extra certification can mean more job opportunities or the ability to work on your own. If you have a Master’s in nursing, you can choose to become a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) by completing the requirements, which include a nationally-administered exam. CNSs are specially trained to provide a family-centered approach to care and to provide enhanced expertise in patient consultation and education, among other distinctive aspects. You can also seek certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). PNPs possess advanced diagnostic and treatment training, and have the power to prescribe medicine in all fifty U.S. states. In some states, PNPs are also permitted to practice independently.

What experience do you need to become a pediatric nurse?

Get 2 years of experience working with children as an RN. Once you become a licensed and practicing RN, you can seek out jobs that put you in contact with children. Usually, this would be at a pediatrician's office or in the children’s ward of your local hospital. You could also apply for intern programs that offer new nurses training specifically for pediatrics or volunteer in the pediatric wing of your local hospital.

What skills do you need to become a pediatric nurse?

Listening and communication. As a pediatric nurse, you’ll be working with and talking to children most of the day. It’s important to listen to what they have to say, even if they don’t have the vocabulary to articulate it just yet. You’ll probably also have to communicate with parents and guardians who might be worried about their kids.

Empathy and compassion. As a pediatric nurse, you may encounter sick children or children who are in pain. It’s important to put yourself in their shoes and do everything you can to make them comfortable. Try not to get frustrated or impatient, and make sure you treat every patient like they’re your own child.

Is being a pediatric nurse hard?

Yes, it can be. When you work with children, you may encounter very ill or even terminal patients throughout your job. It can be sad, stressful, and even frustrating to see children sick or in pain. If you choose to pursue a career in pediatric nursing, make sure you take time for yourself, and talk to your coworkers who can understand what you’re going through.

How long does it take to become a pediatric nurse?

Anywhere from 2 to 5 years. It depends a lot on your education and how much you work once you reach RN status. Usually, people are able to become pediatric nurses about 4 years after they graduate high school.

How much do pediatric nurses make?

Around $75,000 per year. Salaries vary in different states, but most people make around that or above. As you get more experience, you may be able to start earning more within your field.