Peds rotation

[mlisk589]

Just need some input...

I'm in my 4th (and final!) semester of nursing school in my school's ASN program. For the past 3 semesters, it has been all Med/Surg and Telemetry, adult health, which I was comfortable with. I've worked as an NA at a nursing home for the past 18 months, it's what I'm used to.

I start my OB rotation next week, which I'm not too worried about, but I'm dreading my pediatric rotation. I'm so afraid that I won't be able to handle the huge transition. I'm afraid that taking vitals and doing things that became sort of second nature will be totally different with infants/children. A lot of RNs working in med/surg have told me that they hated peds because it was so depressing and the parents are too much to deal with...Is this true? Or am I panicking over nothing?

Thanks..

[highlandlass1592, BSN, RN]

I'd say don't panic. My peds rotation was the best one I had. Just take your time, approach things in a calm, professional manner and you'll be fine.

[SunnyAndrsn]

I loved, loved, loved, LOVED pediatrics. However, I did have one pt. that was hospice...at 8 months of age. I also helped care for a young boy that was most likely terminal as well. Those were not easy. On the other hand, I lost a beloved 83 year old resident today and cried when I told her family. I cried 1/2 the drive home. I'm so happy she's not suffering, and I'm also glad I was her nurse today because I took darn good care of her and I KNOW she wasn't suffering. There are hard parts about nursing no matter what specialty you go into.

Also, we deal with some pretty difficult family members in my facility too. AKA "Why do they have on the same clothes as when I was here three days ago? Um, because we washed them and you've only provided them with a few changes of clothing, DUH!!!

[PICNICRN, BSN, RN]

RELAX! Yes, it will be totally different than what you are comfortable with. Yes, parents can be a challenge. Yes, you might even hate it BUT.... you are a student and it is simply to expose you to a different area of nursing. Ya never know, you might enjoy it?

Try to remember.... whatever clinical you may be dreading... it is only ONE semester of your life- just try to have a positive attitude so that you will be able to take something from it.

Good Luck!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I enjoyed peds for this reason: It will challenge your assessment skills. On many patients you will not be able to get verbal response on signs and symptoms so you will have to closely assess. This could prepare you for working with non-verbal adults later. Parents can be pesky, but that offers you a chance to work on therapeutic communication. And in the meantime, you get sticky kisses and soft hugs from little people.

[netglow, ASN, RN]

I am entering my 3rd semester, we did Peds in second. Be sure to study the differences in med admin, and you'll be fine. Babies/kids love anyone who will show true interest in them. Those a little older don't want to be treated like babies, and the teens don't want a power trip. The parents are funny tho, how clueless they are about their own kids! A couple of times I had to make sure my jaw didn't drop! :omy: And the BP cuffs for the little ones are so cute!

[Lily C.]

I loved peds! Try not to dread it; just like everything else, it gets easier and more relaxing as you go.

[xos4eva]

I hated my peds rotation and swore I would never ever work in peds................ fast forward 5 years later and i'm working at a pediatric emergency room and have been here for a year and a half and yes it is challenging at times but I don't really know if I want to go back to adults lol. Don't dread it. Read your notes, rememberyour developmental stages, take a deep breath and think happy thoughts. ) Good Luck and congratulations and keep your head up.

[pink85]

I loved peds!It is just different and you have to THINK! Just be kid friendly and you will love it!