Caring for Kids at Home: What You Need to Know About Becoming a Pediatric Home Care Nurse
According to the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, there are nearly 12 million children in the United States with some type of chronic health condition. That means that there is a constant need for pediatric home care nurses who can provide skilled nursing care to these kids in the comfort of their own homes.
If you’re thinking about becoming a pediatric home care nurse, there are a few things you should know. In this blog post, we’ll cover what pediatric home care nurses do, what the job outlook is like, and what kind of training and education you’ll need.
What Does a Pediatric Home Care Nurse Do?
Pediatric home care nurses provide skilled nursing care to children with chronic health conditions. This can include tasks like administering medications, changing dressings, and providing wound care. Pediatric home care nurses also work closely with the child’s family to develop a plan of care and educate them on how to best care for their child at home.
What Is the Job Outlook for Pediatric Home Care Nurses?
The job outlook for pediatric home care nurses is very positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of registered nurses will grow by 15% from 2016 to 2026—much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is being driven by an ageing population and an increased emphasis on preventive care.
What Kind of Training and Education Do I Need?
To become a pediatric home care nurse, you will need at least a two-year degree from an accredited nursing program. However, many employers prefer candidates who have a four-year degree in nursing or a bachelor’s degree in another field with a two-year degree in nursing. You will also need to be licensed as a registered nurse in your state of practice.
If you’re interested in becoming a pediatric home care nurse, there are many opportunities available. These nurses play a vital role in the lives of millions of children across the country and enjoy excellent job prospects. To become a pediatric home care nurse, you will need at least an associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited program along with licensure as a registered nurse. If you have any questions about becoming a pediatric home care nurse or would like more information about nursing careers in New Jersey, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!