Can I Ask You Old Salts A Question?

[rd_rnr]

I am applying for a job in a clinic that deals with kids.Any advice for me if I get the job?

[Reasonable Rascal]

Learn to like kids in all their various moods. :grin:

RR

[Reasonable Rascal]

On a more serious note don't treat them like little adults (the fad in EMS in the 80's). Kids are kids and their systems, average vital signs and endurance levels are different. They perceive differently, they react differently.

One thing I have learned is never lie to them. They'll never (within the realm of their memory any way) forgive you. The shot will hurt but only a short while and no worse than a bee sting. Smashing your fingers in the toy chest hurts worse. :(

Kids react differently with parents around. Better or worse depends on the family. Some will be unconsolable without mom or dad there, others won't calm down until their overly worrisome parent is out of sight and out of hearing.

It takes a certain type of person to deal effectively with children, just as it does with mental health patients, the elderly, etc.

Be sincere when you smile, expect reactions you would never have dreamed of when you were that age, and expect well-meaning but overly protective parents to be a large portion of the challenge.

RR

[themadmedic]

And remember kids decompensate quickly...they look ok, they look ok, they look ok, then they crash....:eek:

[rd_rnr]

Thanks guys!I appreciate the tips.It is kind of a new thing for me,I had a whole semester of Pediatrics in Nurses' Training,but this would be the first time that I would be on my own and responsible for patients.