pedsEDRN16

I was really lucky as a new grad in the pediatric ER. My orientation was just over a year and consisted of 8 weeks on the general pediatric floor, 2 weeks in NICU, certification classes, trauma classes, and 8 weeks in the adult ED/triage. My advice: never be afraid to ask for help. Resources are always available =) I'm going on 3 years now in the Peds ED and I love it =)

I worked in a Peds er as a tech before I got my job as an RN in the same Peds er. As a tech the one difference from an adult med surg floor to a Peds er is that you will be expected to "hold down" kids for procedures such as iv's and caths. That took some getting use to. Taking vitals, just remember to do the least invasive first (reels) then move to more invasive (temp if oral or rectal and BP) because it could be altered since the little ones usually cry. As for becoming a nurse, I made sure my manager knew I was interested in a position as a RN about 8 months before I graduated. Every now then I would ask and see if it was a possibility and just keep following up. Soon enough two weeks after graduation I got an offer for their nurse residency program. It is a hard transition, especially if you work In the Same unit as a tech then a nurse just because everyone knows you and expects a lot, it's a new role, learning to delegate to techs etc. but if it's something you love, go for it! I love the Peds er!!!

Got my job as a new grad in the Peds ER after working there as a tech for 2 years while I was in nursing school. My advice would be to get your foot in the door and try to find a job as an ER tech. It also helps you get used to the fast pace of an ER and understand how important it is to be able to prioritize and multi task.