The nurse shortage is affecting all areas of healthcare, but pediatrics is particularly hard hit. Only about 8% of nurses specialize in pediatrics, and this shortfall is expected to worsen in the coming years. If you love working with children and believe you have what it takes to be a great pediatric nurse practitioner, here are some compelling reasons to consider this field.

### You’re Great with Kids

Not everyone is naturally good with children, which is perhaps why so few choose to become pediatric nurses. However, if you do have this special skill, you can turn it into a rewarding career that pays well. Pediatric nurses need to be creative in distracting kids during treatments and comforting both them and their parents. They must also simplify complex medical information in a way that children can understand. These skills are rare but highly valued.

As a pediatric nurse, you’ll need to have excellent bedside manners and be an effective communicator. Often, you’ll have to keep everyone calm and positive, even in stressful situations.

### You’re Already a Nurse

If you’re currently a nurse looking for a change, pediatric nursing is a fantastic option. It offers a fulfilling career with excellent job prospects, especially in states like Texas. Plus, you can find online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs that let you earn your pediatric MSN while continuing to work. These programs can be completed relatively quickly if you can manage the coursework, making them ideal for nurses seeking a new challenge.

### The High Demand for PNPs

The high demand for pediatric nurse practitioners benefits not only job seekers but also new students trying to get into the field. With fewer people choosing this specialty, admission requirements are often lower due to reduced competition.

Graduates in this field benefit greatly in terms of career growth and salary. The demand for pediatric nurses is projected to increase at twice the rate of registered nurses, with an expected growth of 35% compared to 16% for RNs. Pediatric nurses are among the highest paid in the profession, with a median annual salary of around $98,000. If job stability and a well-paying career are important to you, pediatrics is definitely worth considering.

### A Rewarding Career

Pediatric nursing is one of the most fulfilling careers in healthcare and its demand will only continue to grow. It offers a great opportunity for those who have the necessary skills and the right temperament for the role.