Alyssa
I wish to be a pediatric nurse. I was wondering if you could tell me what to do after high school to become a pediatric nurse?
Classes, diplomas, etc
2 answers
Teresa Bentley
Teresa’s Answer
Dear Alyssa, What a great choice to become a pediatric nurse! You will be able to help so many children and their families in this role. You will need to become an RN - Registered Nurse first and then you can specialize in the Pediatric area. There are many colleges with programs to become an RN. Most nurses now obtain their Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) at a college or university first. Becoming an RN is done by passing a test after your education is complete. The test is called the NCLEX. Some colleges still offer an associates degree- AD in nursing and you can still be an RN with a shorter time in college. The only problem with getting an AD in nursing instead of a BSN is that some hospitals are not hiring AD nurses. BSN is preferred for hospitals who are pursing a quality designation called "Magnet". To be a magnet hospital is a big deal and when they are pursuing this designation they must show that they have a high number of BSN prepared nurses. I hope this helps you in your pursuit and I wish you the best of luck!!
Teresa Bentley, RN
Thank you so much!
Alyssa
Would I be able to get my associates degree become an RN and if I get a job work while working towards my bachelors degree?
Alyssa
Yes- You could do that. In fact, several nurses that work in our hospital have an associates degree and are in school part time to finish it. THere are some places now, though, that will not hire anyone without a BSN-- which may limit what type of job you can get in the meantime. That's the only risk.
Teresa Bentley
Ok thank you I really appreciate it!
Alyssa
I agree with Teresa's response 100%; it is becoming more important to have your 4-year BSN vs 2-year Associates Degree. Some hospitals will still hire ADN with requirements that you "bridge" to BSN within a certain time-frame. The more direct route that will give you the most hiring options and better pay is the BSN. If you are considering the ADN and "bridging", know that it is not easy to work as a nurse and go to school (even part-time). I'm happy to continue the conversation if you'd like. Best of luck to you!
Lisa Allen
Thank you so much Lisa! I will defiantly get my BSN.
Alyssa
I agree with above, hospitals near me will not hire nurses without a 4 year BSN degree, however after 2 years you can get your LPN or work as a tech in local hospitals or offices. From my experience people who work the place they want are more likely to get a position. In the PICU where I work there have been a few people working as techs who were in school and got jobs at the hospital immediately following graduation. Also keep an open mind while serving different populations, you never know what will strike you. Nursing is great because there are so many options and different paths you can take.<br>
Good luck!
Katie
I am currently a RN with my associates degree and I am working for a pediatric home care agency while going to school online for my BSN. I want to specialize in pediatrics and I am already gaining experience in the area while getting my next degree. I am 22 and this route worked best for me. It's a great field I strongly recommend i!
Tori
Thank you all for your helpful answers! I am hoping to become a pediatric nurse, and this was very helpful to me!
Angelina
Dixie Barbee
Dixie’s Answer
Hi Alyssa,
You don't have to wait, you can start now….lots of science: Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology (if available), Psychology, Sociology. Check with some of the colleges around you and see if they have Pre - Nursing or find out what their pre-requirements are for their program. I have been a Pediatric Nurse for 30 yrs and love it. You can all try to do some kind of Child Development if you can.
It would help you if you try to volunteer at a hospital in Pedi or Child Life or get a certificate and work as a CNA to get a feel for the work….It is wonderful and rewarding, but not always happy and that can be the hardest part…..Good Luck!
Thank you for the great answer! I am hoping to become a pediatric nurse someday, and your answer was very informative!
Angelina