Why paediatric nurses provide crucial support within medical care
The role of a paediatric nurse is an essential one, providing specialist care to children of all ages from birth up until their early youth. Paediatric nurses not only make a huge difference to the lives of the children that they come into contact with, but are also an essential part of the way that a hospital operates too. They provide crucial supportive medical care to one of the most vulnerable groups of patients in a way that enables more positive outcomes to be achieved.
What does a paediatric nurse do?
There are many different responsibilities involved in being a paediatric nurse. Some of these include providing support and advice to relatives and children, helping to educate and advise and also explaining what’s involved in treatments and procedures. A paediatric nurse will also be looking for changes in symptoms or physical deficits within their patients that can be signs that treatment needs to be altered. This role also includes the handling and administration of drugs as well as pain management for their young patients. In addition to this, there are many practical responsibilities, such as setting up drips, checking intravenous infusions and providing assistance with tests and evaluations. A paediatric nurse will also be providing special and attentive care to all of their young patients, which is a critical aspect for ensuring that they feel safe in an often frightening environment.
Why are paediatric nurses so crucial?
Knowledge and experience-Treating children is not the same as providing adult care and an experienced paediatric nurse can bring a wealth of skill and insight to delivering expert care to children.
Being there for the families- When children are sick this can be an incredibly anxious time for their families and the paediatric nurse has a key role to play in providing support, dealing with problems and addressing concerns and options.
Insight and understanding- Many young children may not be able to express how they are feeling but a good pediatric nurse can interpret behaviours and reactions to draw conclusions and identify what’s happening.
Responsible and observant- Paediatric nurses are highly observant and this can be crucial in an environment where emotions are running high and situations can change quickly. They are also able to take responsibility for making essential decisions when it comes to identifying the most essential next steps.
Empathy and compassion- Although nurses all over the hospital will have to deal with difficult situations and distressed relatives, when it comes to children who are sick or dying this can require particular sensitivity. Paediatric nurses are especially compassionate and empathetic, not just to the children themselves but also to what their families are going through.
Flexible and adaptable- There are many different situations that may require pediatric nurses, from hospitals and homes to working within the community. These are skilled and flexible professionals who can adapt to a range of environments.
These are just some of the reasons why paediatric nurses are essential within medical care. With the crucial support that they provide for patients and their families, as well as hospital staff, paediatric nurses are a crucial element in ensuring that patients feel well informed and supported on their road to recovery.
