Working as a pediatric nurse is incredibly rewarding, especially if you get to care for the same patients over an extended period of time. If you provide in-home care to individuals with chronic illnesses, for example, you might work with the same family for years. Regardless of the circumstances, though, the job can also be incredibly demanding. As such, it’s natural to stress about your first day with any new patient. If that day is fast approaching, here are a few tips for handling it with ease. 

Do:

Be prepared to answer questions. 

On your first day, the family will inevitably want to know what kind of care you will provide. After introducing yourself to both the parents and the patient, start a dialogue about their needs and the ways in which you intend to meet them. Be as communicative as possible, and use simple terms to explain your role, especially if neither parent has a medical background. 

Provide your certifications. 

Don't be offended if the parents ask about your credentials. Depending on the circumstances, this may be the first time they’ve left their child alone with anyone.

Be prepared to discuss your education and training, as well as your experience with cases similar to their child's. Don’t take it personally if they're skeptical. Instead, try to put them at ease as best you can. 

Don’t:

Expect to remember everything. 

While you have a duty to remember the child's medical needs, it’s okay if you can’t recall their favorite TV show or midday snack on the first day. You will learn all about the patient as time passes.

You can memorize non-medical instructions faster, however, if you write them down. Keep a small notebook and a pen in your pocket and jot down pertinent information that the parents or patient share with you over the course of each shift. 

Worry if the child is shy. 

While some kids are incredibly outgoing, many are shy. Don't be discouraged if the patient doesn't warm up to you right away. While you may be able to foster a bond by engaging them in some favorite hobbies, there's no reason to stress if the child takes a few days—or a few weeks—to truly trust you. 

If you're on your way to becoming a pediatric nurse, consider working for J&D Ultracare. Operating out of Suffern, NY, we serve families throughout the Hudson-Valley region. A leading home-care agency, we have the resources to offer our employees flexible hours and generous benefits, including health insurance and retirement savings. To browse our current job openings, visit our website. To ask about a pediatric nurse position, call (845) 357-4500.