Advice for new pediatric nurse

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

I just got my first job ever as a nurse and it's in peds! I've known for a long time that this was my calling and I'm so so excited to begin my career in something I'm passionate towards.

However, it's been a while since I've been in the peds setting. I did my leadership in nursing school on a med surg floor so I haven't worked on a peds unit in a few years. I'm starting soon and just need some help on knowing what tool will be useful to have on a daily basis. What all do you use and carry around? What all do I need to buy? Any good pocket books I could invest in? Good places to get stethoscope covers? Also any advice you may have to offer up for me?

I really appreciate any answers! Just want to be prepared when I go in there my first day :)

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.

Stethoscope covers are major vectors for pathogens. I'd skip them if I were you. Invest in the Harriet Lane Handbook (available as an e-book) as a good general resource. Get a couple of pocket-sized, easily-disinfected toys that light up or make noise to help distract your little patients. Carry a small stock of novelty bandaids. Brush up on your Treehouse/Nickelodeon/Disney Channel pop culture. And have fun!

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

Thank you! I'll look into all of that :)

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