pediatrics's unit

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Hello i had a quick question, i really want to work in the pediatric unit eventually. Right now i am on a list to get into the nursing program, while i wait i am doing the cna program. kinda bummed because i know that's all going to be older people. but anyways what can i do while i wait ,so that eventually i can be in the pediatric unit?

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

FYI, once you enter nursing school you will have to "deal with older people" in order to receive the requirements of being a generalist new grad nurse.

As far as CNA work, you can always apply to a pediatric unit or hospital in your area once you have completed your CNA program; these jobs can be tight, but you could be a sitter for children in the hospital setting, for example. Look in your area for available opportunities and go from there.

Best wishes.

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Hello i had a quick question, i really want to work in the pediatric unit eventually. Right now i am on a list to get into the nursing program, while i wait i am doing the cna program. kinda bummed because i know that's all going to be older people. but anyways what can i do while i wait ,so that eventually i can be in the pediatric unit?

While you wait you can reconsider your desire to be a nurse. I understand that we all have different affinities but realize that nursing school will most likely be 3/4s "older people" while a quarter is divided by pediatris and obstetrics.

Also, what makes you think you'll land a coveted pediatric position straight from school? Being a CNA on a pediatric unit? I know friends that were PCT's that never got to work in their units. It's not always a sure fire away.

I guess if you decide to enter nursing school you'll just have to put up with those "older people" ... ugh what a bummer.

Note: I understand everyone has that one passion but I just cannot stand that "ughhhhh older people" mentality. I don't know why, it rubs me the wrong way. Maybe because in my culture our elders we respect and I see that attitude as disrespectful.

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thank you for you help and im sorry if you guys took it has an ugh to older people i did not mean it that way, just meant it is my goal to be in the unit.

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& i will not change my mind about being a nurse i LOVE helping other people no matter if they are OLDER people or younger.

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Specializes in public health, women's health, reproductive health.

I understand your preference. But really, please understand what others are telling you. Pediatrics will most likely be a very, very small part of your nursing education. During my maternal-child clinical rotation I had ONE day on a pediatric unit. Not trying to discourage you at all. Your experience might be different. But just be aware. Best wishes as you pursue your dream. :-)

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Two words: nurse externship. A lot of the hospitals have summer programs called nurse externships. What does a nurse extern do? Like an internship externs are paid to work for a short pre-defined period. Most act as a paid member of the floor often in a role similar to that of a CNA. However, it is also very much an educational experience. They learn valuable skills and gain more experience. Many stay on as part-timers or per-diem after they are done. Most of the hospitals in my area, including the peds hospitals, have some form of externship available. That said they are very competitive. They all have their own requirements but all of them from what I have seen require the successful completion of at least one clinical semester.

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