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How to specialize in Pediatrics in the Nursing Field?

After getting my Bachelor's in Nursing, how will I be able to move down the road of becoming a specialist in pediatrics?

nursing pediatrics nursing-education pediatric-nursing
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Carolyn’s Answer

If you decide during your clinical that pediatrics are for you, there are many routes to becoming a pediatric RN. Like the above answer, you can obtain an associates degree and later your bachelor's. This could work if you want to start on a pediatric floor/ wing of a regular, non peds- specialty hospital (any regular hospital that doesn't have 'Children's' in its title). Most pediatric hospitals nowadays, though, are requiring a BSN to be hired. If you want to work in a stand alone pediatric hospital (a hospital serving primarily patients aged 0-18) then connecting with professionals (through your nursing school, via making connections on LinkedIn) is a great way to go about learning about a specific hospital you might be interested in. Pediatric hospitals have all pediatric specialties- emergency, medical/ surgical, ICU, neonatal ICU, orthopedics, pulmonology, hematology/ oncology, etc. This would be a great place to go if you're interested in anything specific (ER, transplants, ICU level care, etc) and also pediatrics! Lots to choose from at the stand alone children's hospitals.

It is also possible to start in adults if that is more fitting for your career path, and later connect with and apply to the pediatric floor at that hospital (should they have one) or later a pediatric hospital at large. Never too late to switch to pediatrics!
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Tracy’s Answer

I would suggest choosing your specialty when you are in clinicals. Most nurses change their mind after seeing the different areas while in clinicals. If you are set after going through your pediatrics rotation, you should apply for a job on a pediatric floor/wing. I always tell people to stair step your nursing education. Most hospitals will pay for you to go back to school. It is much cheaper to get your 2-year associates degree, and then allow the hospital to pay for your bachelor's, Masters, doctorate.
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