Prerequisites
In order to get into a training course for pediatric nursing, it is required that you first complete schooling at a nursing program that is accredited and obtain a license from the state as a registered nurse. To keep the licensed renewed annually, you will have to obtain continuing education units.
Certification
There are different ways you can go about obtaining training for the pediatric nurse field. Courses are offered through the Emergency Nurses Association and American Heart Associations' Pediatric Advanced Life Support. In order to get a certificate, you will have to pass the Certified Pediatric Nurse, or CPN, exam.
Job Training
Some medical facilities may want you to have two years of experience in the nursing field. Of course, you can still obtain job training by applying to pediatric facilities. Some even offer internships.
General Duties
Some of the main duties that are provided by the pediatric nurse include treatments, assessments, patient education and family counseling in relations to pediatric physical and mental disabilities and disease prevention. The location the individual is working in will determine what type of duties they will have.
Specialty Care Settings
There are different specialty areas to choose from in the pediatric nursing field, including neonatal ICU, oncology, orthopedics, hematology, medical unit, pediatric intensive care unit, surgical unit and other areas of the pediatric facility. Nurses working in emergency situations can obtain special training to prepare them for the patients that will be acutely ill or critically injured.
