Nurse Activities for Pediatric Hospital Patients

Pediatric nursing involves caring for the medical needs of children from newborn babies through adolescents. Pediatric nurses do not simply care for the physical needs of their patients. As noted by Medical Schools & Nursing Colleges Worldwide, they must also take into account the effects illness and treatment on a child's emotional development.

Interacting With Patients' Families

• A pediatric nurse is the liaison between doctors, patients and patients' families. According to NurseUniverse.com, the pediatric nurse must make sure that both the patient and his family members understand the treatment program and procedures the patient undergoes. The nurse has a responsibility to advocate for the patient but also to maintain professionalism when interacting with families as well as members of the hospital staff.

Diagnosing Illness

• Not only do pediatric nurses learn each child's medical history and examine her current condition, but they also make diagnoses that help determine treatment. If a diagnosis is not clear, the pediatric nurse often runs or orders additional tests to reach a conclusion, says NurseUniverse.com. Finally, the nurse will help decide the best course of treatment for the child in his care.

Performing Preventive Care

• In addition to treating illnesses, pediatric nurses provide preventive care for children. Primary health care services that often fall under the care of pediatric nurses include administering immunizations, performing developmental screenings and giving parents guidance on common childhood health concerns, according to AllNursingSchools.com.