NS2203: Pediatric Nursing

Course Description:

This course introduces nursing students to the principles of pediatric nursing and child health care, focusing on growth and development, common pediatric illnesses, and age-appropriate nursing interventions. Emphasis is placed on family-centered care, assessment skills, health promotion, preventive care, and basic clinical nursing skills. Students will develop the ability to provide safe, evidence-based, and holistic care for infants, children, and adolescents in a variety of healthcare settings.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able:

1. Describe the role of nurses in pediatric care and the principles of family-centered nursing.
2. Describe the growth and developmental stages of infants, children, and adolescents.
3. Perform basic pediatric assessments and interpret vital signs across age groups.
4. Identify common pediatric disorders and provide safe nursing interventions.
5. Apply health promotion, preventive care, and immunization principles in pediatric practice.
6. Recognize psychosocial and behavioral considerations in children and adolescents.
7. Integrate theoretical knowledge into clinical practice.

Required Materials

• Textbooks of Pediatric Nursing: Ball, J. W., Bindler, R. C., Cowen, K. J., & Griffin, B. R. (2020). Pediatric Nursing: Caring for Children and Their Families (6th ed.). Pearson.
• Lecture notes and PowerPoint slides covering growth and development, pediatric assessment, and disease management.
• Case studies for common pediatric conditions (e.g., respiratory, gastrointestinal, infectious diseases)
• Videos, animations, and simulations of pediatric procedures (e.g., IV insertion, medication administration, neonatal care)
• Charts and diagrams of developmental milestones, vaccination schedules, and pediatric drug dosages

Clinical equipment and simulation resources:

• Pediatric assessment tools: stethoscope, infant scales, thermometers, pulse oximeter
• PPE for infection control during pediatric clinical practice
• Growth charts, developmental screening tools, and documentation forms