Love working with kids? Are you someone who is dreaming about becoming a Nursing Assistant in 2024, or planning to specialize as a Pediatric CNA? Wondering how to become one in the U.S.? Worry not!
In this article, you will learn more about how to become a Pediatric CNA and the roles of a Pediatric Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Who Is a Pediatric CNA?
A Pediatric CNA is a nursing professional who works directly with young patients to provide hands-on care under the supervision of a registered nurse. These CNAs work directly with children of all ages who cannot care for themselves. Apart from CNAs being in high demand, there is also a great need for CNAs in Pediatrics.
Since Pediatric hospitals work 24 hours a day, Nursing Assistants who work in the Pediatric department may have to work full-time schedules, as well as night shifts and weekends. Pediatric Nursing Assistants can also be referred to as CNAs, or Pediatric CNAs if they have received certification.
Becoming a Pediatric CNA
If you are someone who is passionate about becoming a Pediatric CNA, you may want to learn about how to become one.
- Complete a CNA program. The CNA program includes theory, lab, and clinical classes.
- Take the CNA exam. You are required to take and pass the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam in the state you wish to establish your nursing career.
- Procure your CNA certification after passing the CNA exam in the respective state.
- You are now eligible to practice as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the respective state. This also gives you the opportunity to gain experience in the field of nursing. Gaining the required experience adds more value to your career.
- You can work in the pediatric department in hospitals, and a physician’s office after procuring your CNA certification. This helps you gain experience as a Pediatric CNA.
- If your state requires you to complete your Pediatric CNA certification, you will have to complete and gain certification to be able to practice as a CNA in the Pediatrics department.
- As a Pediatric CNA, completing your Continuing Education (CE) helps you gain the required knowledge on recent technologies used in the industry. Continuing Education (CE) also helps CNAs maintain their CNA credentials.
- Last, but not least, you may also choose to earn an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in nursing if you are passionate about becoming a full-fledged nurse.
CAREER OPTIONS
Once you have gained the required certification and training to practice as a Pediatric CNA, the next step is to understand the career options available for CNAs in the Pediatrics department. Here’s a list of some of the places you can work as a Pediatric CNA after procuring your certification.
- Public Health Centers – Pediatric Department.
- Family Medical Clinics.
- Pediatric Clinics.
- Home Healthcare Agencies.
- Pediatric Department in hospitals, which includes private, public, and specialty hospitals.
- Children Research Centers.
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Centers.
The Roles of a Pediatric CNA
Generally, Pediatric CNAs have a similar role to that of a general CNA. But, they sometimes have additional roles as they work with young patients. They also have more responsibilities than general CNAs. Some of the roles of a general CNA are as follows:
- Feeding patients.
- Recording vital signs.
- Repositioning patients.
- Providing personal hygiene care to patients.
- Assisting patients with medical procedures.
- Maintaining proper documentation of patient records.
- Wound care.
- Gathering medical supplies required for the patient.
- Stocking medical supplies regularly.
- Maintaining the patient’s room neat and clean.
- Administering medications for patients (in some states).
Apart from these general CNA duties, Pediatric CNAs have some additional duties. Some additional responsibilities of a Pediatric department CNA are as follows:
- Playing with children.
- Reading books to children.
- Changing diapers.
- Comforting and calming children when they are scared and uncomfortable.
- Closely monitor if the kids are taking their medications correctly or even assist them if they are unable to do it on their own.
Wrapping Up
If you are someone who loves working with children and being a part of the healthcare industry, you can consider becoming a Pediatric CNA in the U.S. Considering the growing senior population, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are in high demand. Gaining the required certification and experience helps you equip your skillset. It can also help you stand out among your coworkers.
If you are considering taking the CNA exam or know someone who is planning to take the exam, make sure to refer to our free CNA practice test to help you efficiently prepare for the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the top cities with open Pediatric CNA jobs?
Some of the best cities with job openings for Pediatric department CNAs are as follows:
- Las Vegas.
- Nashville.
- Louisville.
- Phoenix.
- Los Angeles.
How much does a Pediatric CNA make?
A Pediatric department CNA’s average salary in the U.S. is $75,708 as of March 26, 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $68,646 and $86,716.
What does a Pediatric CNA do?
A Pediatric CNA is a healthcare professional who works closely with young patients. They work directly with children of all age groups who need assistance in caring for themselves. Apart from the duties of a general CNA, a Pediatric department CNA has additional duties, such as reading books to children, playing with them, changing diapers, and closely monitoring the kids.
How long does it take to become a Pediatric CNA?
The length of training programs for Pediatric CNAs varies, but they typically range from 4 to 12 weeks. After completing the training program, you’ll need to pass a competency exam to become certified.
What skills are important for a Pediatric CNA?
Key skills for Pediatric CNAs include patience, compassion, effective communication, and the ability to work well in a team. Additionally, knowledge of basic medical procedures, such as taking vital signs and assisting with hygiene, is crucial.
