IM nurse moving to Peds

[LizMorris]

Hello!

I've been an LPN (LVN here in Texas) for about 3 years. Spent my time so far with a mix of Cardio, Internal Med, and a TCU. I just accepted a job at a Peds clinic. I'm sure Ill get plenty of training but any advice from y'all experienced Peds nurses?

[Ann.E]

So I work in a primary care clinic and we do a lot of well child checks. For me the biggest thing was learning about the different schedules for immunizations. And then learning how to be assertive enough with parents when you need their help with their child. Our office uses mostly MAs and since I didn't have a lot of experience with children I shadowed an MA that I felt was very good with children and then once I felt I was ready I had her shadow me as well. I feel like it's more confusing learning about the shots schedules than giving the shots themselves. Our clinic also does vaccines for children since I work in an underserved area so that's another aspect as well. I will say that when I first started this job I was so scared to give shots to little kids, but now I don't really bat an eye at it. Good luck and I know you'll do great!

[LizMorris]

Thanks for your reply! I'm a couple weeks in and it's basically what you've said - vaccines are the most confusing part! I'm keeping our schedule in my scrub pocket for quick reference. Slowly but surely I'm catching on. :)