qs re pediatric nursing

[ejsmom]

Hello to all! I'm currently an LPN student enrolled in a LPN-RN bridge program. I think peds is where I should be once I graduate. (I know I can't work in peds w/out an RN degree). Anyway, once I get my license what do I have to do to get my foot in the door? Is there additional testing/certifications required to work on a peds floor? Tks in advance!!

[kids]

The need to have your RN may be a regional or hospital thing as there is no reason why LPNs can't work in Peds.

There are certifications for Peds but usually you need to have worked a minimum number of hours before you can apply to take the test.

Having your PALS certification may give your resume an edge. Finding a certification class can be hit or miss as many employers provide the training and testing in house, but it may also be available through a local college in your area.

In my area both the childrens hospital and the university medical center have preceptorship programs for new nurses.

[jillyk*rn]

hi,

we take lots of new grads. every hospital will have those other things they require. if you can get your pals done, do that. it shows that you are serious about peds.

:icon_hug: good luck!!

[MissJoRN, RN]

Some larger hospitals or units use LPNs on their peds units. Ours doesn't simply because a low census often needed only one nurse and one aide so obviously that nurse had to be an RN. Being an LPN would have been unfair since the LPN always would have been first float or call off. Also, with a moderate sized unit the RN would still have to cover some RN-only tasks, like IV pushes but somenits are large enough to have a census that makes that practical. Make any sense or am I babbling? (long day with an ADHD/PDD kiddo today, LOL)

Also, with some LTC or acute care experince (including med-surg) some homecare agencies will give you pediatric cases, that might work well with your school schedule? Look into what agencies require of LPNs, experience wise (good, bad or indifferent, I've really seen the hiring standards for both RNs and LPNs drop in the last few years) Look for an agency that has "some" standards... ie- do you really want to work for an agency that would hire you right after school... no matter how much you may want peds that is NOT a good sign! Some agencies offer age/development based training to reaquaint adult care nurses with taking caare of younger patients safely and compassionately, of course, that IS a good sign! Just food for thought, maybe you already knew this and thought "no way" but maybe it helps.

[ejsmom]

thanks for the information.... i actually didn't know any of that missjorn, i really appreciate it! wish me luck!!