There are distinct and significant differences between the duties of registered nurses (RN) who have different levels of education. Any RN who has a bachelor's degree and passed the appropriate exam can work with pediatric patients.
RNs in Pediatric Care
RNs assigned to a pediatric hospital, a pediatric unit of a general hospital or a pediatric clinic may have little experienced in the care of children. They give direct physical care such as measuring vital signs, administering medicine, following doctor's orders and entering information in the patient's chart about treatment given. They share information with the next shift of nurses. Usually, nurses at this level are not in charge of other nurses.
Registered nurses wages vary by region, population within their catchment area and the type of facility. The mean annual wage, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is currently $65,130.
RNs with Certification
Nurses who have specific training in pediatric care and who pass a special exam are awarded certification. RNs certified in pediatrics have added duties. Part of a treatment team, they serve with other professionals such as doctors, physical therapists, child life specialists and social workers. They may supervise other nurses, help develop patient care plans and educate patients and their families about conditions and treatments.
Nurses with certification earn approximately $10,000 more annually than RNs without the added training.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs)
At this level, RNs have a master's degree in nursing and board certification in pediatric medicine. They follow the regulations of the state in which they practice. If accredited through the national board exam, the nurse practitioner will have an additional credential, such as Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. PNPs have studied some of the same subjects as doctors.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners are paid the most for their services. In selected areas, a PNP will earn $100,000 or more.
PNP Duties
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNP) can be the first to examine a patient and write his medical history in the patient's chart. PNPs can treat common childhood illnesses, write prescriptions, order medical tests and make referrals to other staff. PNPs teach continuing education to staff. Working with families and patients who have chronic illnesses or disabilities, they teach them care for themselves at home and school.They confer with other professionals to plan follow-up care and may alter the plan of care as needed. Most PNPs work closely with a patient's doctor.
PNPs usually follow a patient over a period of time. They have learned specific observation skills so they may notice subtle important changes in a patient that lead to meaningful additions to treatment. PNPs are active advocates on behalf of their patients. They may also do research and write articles. Some will speak at conferences, including the annual conference sponsored by the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.
Conclusion
The more training an RN has, the more responsibilities and opportunities she has for making critical decisions that affect a patient's recovery.
Tags: Pediatric Nurse, Nurse Practitioners, Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, Duties Pediatric, hospital pediatric