Pediatric Rotation

MassED, BSN, RN · Oct 11, 2009

Hello Everyone,
I will be starting my pediatric rotation in two weeks. I am a little nervous about it because I have no idea how to talk in children terms. Plus, this rotation is different from others I have had because everything regarding a child is different from that of an adult. I will be hanging IVs, giving insulin, etc but I have no prob with the math just have to practice to refresh. In addition, I want to be as prepared as I can so I can WOW my instructor.
Please, any advice on how to succeed this rotation would be most helpful. Thanks all.

you're a student, but are hanging lines, and giving insulin? I don't recall that in my ADN program - it was more supportive care - the pedi RN's took care of the kids. If we did get permission from the parents, we could partake in their care, but that wouldn't have been doing any of the meds solo.

I would suggest you talk to kids w/ sincerity - kids can spot insincerity a mile away. Can you remember those adults that you liked when you were a child? Can you remember those adults that you did not like when you were a child? Remember those things - be yourself and be nice (and mean it.) Don't use medical terms with kids - that's irritating to anyone that isn't in the medical world, but most of all, children. Don't talk down to them - just be yourself. Be interested in what they're interested in. Ask about their cartoons they like, what toys they like to play with, if they like playgrounds - their favorite thing to do at school. Who are their friends, their favorite teacher. What are they going to be for Halloween - or what do they want to be for Halloween, if they're sick and in the hospital. Simple things, really. Humor always is a great tool for kids - keeps their anxiety level down. Silliness is always appreciated!

I would be prepared, above all, that's how you can "wow" your instructor.

healthcarestudent · Oct 11, 2009

Thank you so much for your input. We actually give meds and nursing procedure all under the supervision of the nurse we are assigned to or our CI.

I really appreciate the tips. I would for sure keep them in mind.

SolaireSolstice, BSN, RN · Oct 12, 2009

Start studying you vital ranges now. There are differences between pediatrics and adult. The rest of the disease process falls into place easily if you know your patho.

Growth and development stumped some people in my class. Erickson was big at my school. The gross and fine motor skills deveolpment, language development, feeding, socialization, etc. all are focused on.

Carry stickers for boys and girls in your pocket and remember to use the cartoon bandaids. Let the child see your stethlescope before you try and put it on them. Don't bargain away your goals/interventions, but give the child choices, "Would you like to take this medicine first, or this one?" "Do you want to choose your sticker you get when you take your medicine?"

I was able to give meds during my pedicatric rotation as well. The dosages are all based on mg/kg/dose. Your regular drug book may not have those; I bought the pediatric drug guide so I wouldn't have to spend too much time looking stuff up on the hospital floor.

notthereyet0 · Oct 14, 2009

Probably a stupid suggestion, but watch Patch Adams. It is a movie by Robin Williams that is based on a true life story. It inspires me every time, although it is not just about kids, but it kinda gives you a perspective about it.