Adult rehab RN thinking of applying on Peds unit? Need advice please!

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Hello everyone!

I have worked at an acute rehab hospital for adults for the past year. Before this, I worked as a nurse tech at a rehabilitation hospitals for pediatric patients. I have always loved peds, and am hoping to work as a Peds RN. I was not able to get a Peds job in my area as there were no opening for new grads when I moved to my new town (had to move because of husband's job...I miss all my kiddos at my old hospital!). Therefore, I accepted a position at a rehabilitation hospital. I love my job, but am aching for peds again. I have worked with the 18+ population for the past year. I was just wondering if I should even apply for any peds positions? Would the transition be too hard? Would it look back on me that I have very little pediatric experience (I only have peds experience for the year I was a nurse tech at the children's rehab hospital)...I have worked with a lot of ortho patients s/p surgery, IVs, PEGs, Foleys, etc....but all on adult patients only. I have always dreamed of being a peds nurse....but I know it is a totally difference world over in peds....so was just hoping for some advice! Thanks so much!

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Are you thinking orthopedics or pediatrics? If your heart is set on pediatrics I would say go for it. I would not bother starting a new position in ortho (from your previous post). You might as well try to land a position in your desired specialty. If you find a hospital with a good orientation program I am sure you will be fine. Just like with any nursing specialty you will learn as you go.

Best wishes.

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Thank you for your kind advice! In my way of thinking, I am wanting a change..and since I've worked in rehab as an RN for the past year, I figured it may be best to go into ortho. I figured I would just look better with my rehab experience. But my heart is definitely set in peds. I will definitely be on the lookout for some peds positions! Thank you again!

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

If your heart is Peds then go for it.

I did almost a year with adults as a new grad in a SNF/vent unit before I got a Peds position.

My opinion it wasn't hard, kids don't usually come with complex comormidites like adults unless they are medically fragile.

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I am going to start applying soon to the hospitals around the area :) Thanks so much for the responses!! A lot of Night RN positions right now, how is it at night with the Peds unit?

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