Will I be able to handle pediatric nursing?

[ngasmom]

I have been a Med/Surg nurse for 18 mths in a small hospital and I have always gotten to take care of the kids who get admitted in the past. I have 4 small kids of my own so I was always comfortable caring for young pts and I always thought they are who I wanted to take care of. But last week there was a MVA in our area and we received a 13 year old girl and was my pt when she came to the floor. I took care of her to the best of my ability, but I every time I looked at her then her mother I had to stop myself from crying. When I looked at her I saw one of my boys. When I looked at her mother I saw myself. Now I am thinking maybe I am too close to those situations and I might take those situations to heart too much to be a pediatric nurse. Any advice???

[vamedic4, EMT-P]

I see a few people have viewed your post but not commented. Here's the skinny --

There are times when we "see" our children, grandchildren, what have you... when caring for others' kiddos. It's natural. I've worked in critical care peds for 12 plus years...and every time I see a baby with a big head and blonde hair I see my sons..and I want so badly to go home and give both of them a big hug!! It can be hard to separate the reality from the "fear" that something may happen to your own family - but for me it's about doing my best for the patient and the family. I consider it an honor to be a part of their lives for however long it takes to get them better.

You can't work in peds without having these feelings, I don't think...so don't worry, you're not alone.

So smile and know that you're doing the best you can!! And don't forget to hug your kids when you get home.

vamedic4

[MackNJacks mom]

It can be heard to separate the reality from the "fear" that something may happen to your own family -

So smile and know that you're doing the best you can!! And don't forget to hug your kids when you get home.

vamedic4

Great response!! I have been a pedi nurse on a neuro floor for a little over a year. I love my job and the kids, but I definately struggle with the what ifs when the family reminds me of my own. I feel like I am waiting for my tragedy many times, especially with the cancer and brain tumors that we see. I do my best at work and I can't see myself doing anything else in life, so I guess I will just deal with it. You just have to try to be strong and care for the families and they will be so grateful. Then you definately go home and hug your kids.