Newborn: HR 120-160, RR 30-60. Toddler: HR 90-150, RR 24-40. School age: HR 75-118, RR 18-30. Adolescent: HR 60-90, RR 12-16. Children have higher heart rates and respiratory rates than adults - know the normal ranges!
Pediatric doses are weight-based (mg/kg) or BSA-based (mg/m²). Always double-check calculations and have another nurse verify high-risk medications. Know safe dose ranges and question orders that seem too high or too low.
Infants: stranger anxiety at 6-8 months. Toddlers: separation anxiety, magical thinking. Preschoolers: fear procedures will hurt. School age: need explanations. Adolescents: want privacy and control. Tailor your approach accordingly.
Children compensate well until they crash suddenly. Watch for tachycardia, tachypnea, decreased urine output, altered mental status, and poor feeding. Respiratory distress often presents first - look for retractions, nasal flaring, grunting.
Parents are partners in care and know their child best. Encourage rooming-in when possible. Teach parents to recognize warning signs and when to seek help. Support the whole family - hospitalization is stressful for everyone.
🎈 Remember: A child's smile and trust are the best rewards in pediatric nursing!
