A pediatrics nurse practitioner (pediatrics NP) is a medical professional who works with patients in a pediatrics ward of a hospital or other medical facility. In many ways, a nurse practitioner may serve as a primary point of contact or primary care provider, usually in close consultation with physicians.

They frequently young, chronically ill patients in the hospital or specialized clinic environment, helping administer and prescribe treatments in consultation with specialists with specialists based upon observations and outcomes of various therapies. The nurse practitioner has some limited ability to prescribe medications as needed and may be called upon for minor day-to-day diagnosis responsibilities of a non-critical variety.

Because the pediatrics nurse practitioner works with young patients, they must possess a patience and facility for working with children. This requires specialized communications skills, an ability to listen and interpret information from the patient, and an ability to subsequently act upon information in a compassionate manner. Additionally, the nurse practitioner must work closely with families, demonstrating competence and compassion.

To be a nurse practitioner in pediatrics, an individual must have a specialized nursing degree from an accredited program. Certifications and licensing to work in this field must also be maintained and updated as required by state law and other relevant regulations. Larger hospitals may require some previous nursing experience in other disciplines before hiring someone to fill this position.

Clinical nurses with non-residential patients may work fairly standard daytime hours; in hospital situations, pediatric nurse practitioners often must be available for shift work during daytime, evening, or overnight hours. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner (NP) Tasks

• Conduct complete physicals, provide treatment and counsel patients
• Administer therapeutic procedures
• Provide physicians with assistance during surgery or complicated medical procedures
• Prescribe therapy or medication with physician approval
• Order and interpret test results and recommend treatment of patients