Pediatric Nursing Specialty, Creative Essay Example

Nursing is both an art and a science. To pursue a career in nursing is multifaceted and requires a certain amount of sole-searching, dedication and perseverance. There are many avenues a person can choice from when deciding to become a nurse; hospital-based, speciality or community. The decision is one which must be evaluated and researched to make the right decision for each individual.

Career Choices

After completing two years and earning an associate’s degree from a community college, I decided to transfer into this university to work towards a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. Although I lack experience in healthcare and nursing, I have a desire to become a nurse and specialize in pediatrics. I choose this field because this speciality provides preventive and acute care to children and adolescents in various different settings. This rewarding career offers a wide range of opportunities to include physician’s offices, hospital and critical care facilities and community based care.

I have not decided yet on the setting I am most interested in. I hope to make this decision as I continue my studies. As I learn more about the dynamics of pediatric nursing and the various settings I will continue to consider my career options. Pediatric nurses have the unique opportunity to watch families grow and develop relationships. This would afford me the opportunity to be involved in the formative years of my patients and be able to not only treat illnesses and diseases, but also be able to teach and educate families for healthier lifestyles. I find this very appealing. I also believe that as a male pediatric nurse I will be able to offer my patients a different view from the traditional concept of how care can be delivered.  I believe both males and females have the ability to provide quality nursing care to children.

Pediatric Nursing

The role of a pediatric nurse is very special as a child’s mind works in a different way from an adult. An important part of pediatric nursing is to give the child’s caregivers the confidence and ability to carry on with a caring role and to be aware of when to stand back and allow them this chance and when to step in for guidance (Medical Colleges, 2010). To be able to accomplish this, the person will first need to complete a degree and learn by practice.

For an individual to obtain a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) a person either attends a four year college or obtains an associate’s degree in nursing and then attends a bridge program such as I am currently undertaking.  After graduating from a nursing school, they are required to pass an examination known as NCLEX. Pediatric nurses are taught specifics regarding children, development, diseases and illnesses specific to pediatric are. In addition they undergo an internship program in a practice setting for gaining practical experience in real life situations. The salary ranges are specific to the location, care setting and level of experience. Typically a new graduate can expect a salary as low as $28,000; however, a median range is $49,000 and experienced nurses can earn as high as $88,000.

Conclusion

The Society of Pediatric Nurses is an entity which supports, encourages and assists pediatric nurses in their careers. The mission statement emphases the importance of choosing this particular field of nursing specialty; “To promote excellence in nursing care of children and their families through support of our members’ clinical practice, education, research and advocacy” (2010). Without any practice experience myself, I am basing my essay on the belief that pediatric nursing will be an exciting, challenging and rewarding field to be involved in. I hope to successful complete my education and training and care for children in this role.

References

Medical Colleges. Pediatric Nursing. (2010).  Retrieved from http://www.medical-colleges.net/pediatrics.htm

Society of Pediatric Nurses. (2010). Retrieved from https://www.pedsnurses.org/