Years of School to a Pediatrician from www.verywellhealth.com
Introduction
If you have a passion for healthcare and love working with children, becoming a pediatric nurse might be the perfect career for you. A pediatric nurse is a specialized registered nurse who provides medical care to children from infancy to adolescence. But how long does it take to become a pediatric nurse? In this article, we will discuss the educational requirements, training, and licensing process for becoming a pediatric nurse.
Educational Requirements
To become a pediatric nurse, you must first obtain a nursing degree. There are three types of nursing degrees: associate degree in nursing (ADN), bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), and master of science in nursing (MSN). An ADN program typically takes two years to complete, while a BSN program takes four years. An MSN program takes an additional two years after completing a BSN.
Training
After completing a nursing degree, you must gain clinical experience in pediatric nursing. Many nursing programs offer pediatric nursing clinical rotations to provide hands-on experience. Additionally, some hospitals offer pediatric nursing internships or residencies for new graduates.
Licensing Process
To become a registered nurse (RN) in the United States, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The exam measures your knowledge and competence in nursing practice. Once you pass the exam, you can apply for a nursing license in the state where you plan to practice.
Specialization in Pediatric Nursing
Once you become an RN, you can specialize in pediatric nursing by obtaining a certification from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). To be eligible for certification, you must have a current nursing license, at least 1,800 hours of pediatric clinical experience, and complete continuing education requirements.
Conclusion
Becoming a pediatric nurse requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The educational requirements, training, and licensing process vary depending on the level of nursing degree you obtain. However, the specialized certification in pediatric nursing can help you stand out in the job market and provide better care to young patients. If you have a passion for working with children, pediatric nursing may be the perfect career for you.