What advice would you give to a nurse who is about to begin a career in pediatrics?

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Your thoughts and opinions are important. It is important to remember when you are asked a question like that that the interviewer will be observing for sincerity. Don't use this as an opportunity to say all of the things you would change in this specialty. Rather, highlight the things that are positive, things that would encourage others to want to be a part of your team.

"I would say to remember that you're only human, and you will become emotionally involved. Remember it is ok to cry and laugh. Just know when each is appropriate. Most of all, don't be afraid to love and give your heart away because as a pediatric nurse you will do that every single day."

"You are about to enter an amazing career. Be prepared to laugh and to cry. You will experience things that will make your own life richer as you will feel blessed every day from your encounters with patients and their families."

"I could probably write a book on some of the things I would tell someone who wants to become a pediatric nurse. The most important thing is- Go for it! If someone has a heart for children and nursing, that person can make a difference. I would remind them to take care of themselves as much as they take care of others and to love and allow others to love them."

Anonymous Answer

"As a new grad that is eager to begin a career in pediatrics, I would give a nurse the same advice I received from an experienced pediatrics nurse. I would say it is okay to have fun with the patients and take the time to do something out of your comfort zone to make an impact on that patient's experience. I would tell them you are going to have many great moments in this specialty but there will also be times when the only thing you know to do is cry and that's okay too."

Cindy's Feedback

Nice! It sounds like you had good mentors and this sounds like very good advice.

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Anonymous Answer

"I would say that you are about to embark on an amazing and rewarding career but remember that it is okay to cry sometimes. Empathy resonates with patients and families and to take the time to do something that will positively impact patient care. They say that people don't remember your name but remember the way you made them feel. I think this is especially true with children and their families."

Amanda's Feedback

Good answer! Your response is patient-focused, which should appeal to many healthcare employers. You can make it even more impactful by relating a specific example of a time when you did something to positively impact patient care and what the outcome of that effort was.