Do you want to educate yourself about pediatric nurse assistants? Are you thinking of becoming one? Or you are here to educate yourself about the profession.
Pediatric nurse assistants assist the nurses and doctors in different child healthcare settings. Here, we will share every single piece of information related to this information. From job information to the educational journey and financial rewards, we will cover everything.
After reading this article, you will know the pediatric CNA meaning. Moreover, we have also provided the difference between CNA and CMA to avoid any confusion. Let’s start by uncovering their job description.
What Does a Pediatric Nurse Assistant Do?
Pediatric nurse assistants play a pivotal role in pediatric healthcare. Their responsibilities span an array of tasks, such as monitoring vital signs, aiding medical procedures, and creating a nurturing and comfortable environment for young patients. Working alongside pediatricians, nurses, and other healthcare providers is crucial for providing comprehensive care tailored specifically to the unique needs of children.
Pediatric nurse assistants play an indispensable role in providing young patients with an atmosphere conducive to trusting medical procedures while simultaneously relieving anxiety. Pediatric CNA duties may include dispensing medication, recording vital signs, and offering emotional support as part of a holistic healthcare approach.
How to Become a Pediatric Nurse Assistant?
The steps to become a pediatric nurse assistant are not many and are as follows. It is a hybrid of learning and practice. Here are the necessary steps to become a CNA:
Step 1: Take a Pediatric Focused Certified Nursing Assistant Course
First of all, it is necessary to choose a CNA course that deals with children. Ensure that theunk is from an accredited school or the training center. These programs normally last for several months and help you learn the fundamentals of being with children in a health care setting.
Step 2: Complete the Program
After that, you will have to dedicate yourself to your studies. This part will teach you how to care for young patients, how to meet their needs and how you can support doctors and nurses. You will also be able to have a practical experience when doing your clinical practice.
Step 3: Pass the Certification Exam
The next step that you will need to take after completing your CNA course is to sit for a state approved exam. This test will determine whether you are qualified for certification as a pediatric nurse assistant. After you pass, you will be a certified teacher.
Step 4: Get Experience and Keep on Learning
When you get certified, then try to secure practical experience as soon as possible. Some employers may wish you to have other certifications in pediatric care to advance in this area. The more experience one acquires the higher his or her chances of enhancing their career.
Pro Tip: Explore other certifications like the Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). They can help the individual get a better paid job or get a promotion in the field of pediatric health.
How Much Does a Pediatric CNA Earn?
Pediatric nurse assistant career not only can provide the financial compensation, but also bring the plenty of the non-monetary benefits. The salary of the pediatric CNAs depends on some factors such as;
- Experience
- Geographical location
- Working environment
The average salary of a pediatric CNAs is $24,000-$36,000 per year, and $20.06 per hour. The official starting rate of wages may seem low but there are ways of earning more of it through a raise, more certification, or an advanced degree in pediatric nursing.
Besides the salary, working as a pediatric CNA is fulfilling. Yes! You get to work with children and actually be able to change their lives for the better on a daily basis. Although the pediatric nurse assistant salary may vary, the personal rewards are priceless.
Pediatric CNA vs. Pediatric CMA
People often get confused between CMA and CNA. But there’s a lot of difference in their roles and responsibilities. Both Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) and Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) work in the healthcare system, but they are different.
Pediatric CMAs primarily focus on clinical and administrative tasks, such as recording patient histories, preparing medical instruments, and overseeing various administrative aspects of healthcare facilities.
On the other hand, pediatric CNAs specialize in patient care directly by offering assistance with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring the overall comfort of pediatric patients.
These rules reflect the collaborative nature of healthcare teams, with each member contributing unique skills in order to provide comprehensive care.
Pediatric Nurse Assistant Job Description Sample
Understanding the day-to-day responsibilities of a pediatric nurse assistant provides valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the role. A sample job description may include:
- Measuring and recording vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
- Assist with personal hygiene tasks such as bathing and changing diapers.
- Emotional support to pediatric patients and their families during medical procedures.
- Collaboration with healthcare professionals to design and implement care plans tailored specifically for each child.
- Monitoring and notifying the healthcare team of any changes in a child’s condition.
- Ensuring pediatric patients have a safe and nurturing environment.
Final Words
Opting to become a pediatric nurse assistant is not only a professional decision but also a pledge to positively influence children’s lives. Demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to expand rapidly, offering ample opportunity for professional growth and personal fulfillment.
As previously stated, becoming a pediatric nurse assistant requires an intricate mix of education, practical experience, and a genuine passion for pediatric care. While these professionals play an integral part in shaping healthcare in our society as a whole, their work extends well beyond medicine’s borders.
