Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving healthcare field, the emphasis on Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses has never been greater.
Medical science progresses, and with every advancement, the need for skilled professionals who can diagnose, treat, and care for children with digestive system issues heightens.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker aiming to understand the depth of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of pediatric gastroenterology nursing,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Duties and Responsibilities
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses are specialized nurses who provide care for children and adolescents with gastrointestinal diseases.
They are skilled in understanding the needs of young patients and are proficient in the procedures and treatments related to gastrointestinal disorders.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Administering medications and nutritional therapies as ordered by the physicians
- Assisting doctors during endoscopic procedures
- Educating patients and families about their conditions, treatment options, and how to manage symptoms at home
- Conducting physical exams and health assessments to monitor the patient’s condition
- Recording patient information including symptoms, medical history, and treatment responses
- Implementing and evaluating individualized patient care plans
- Monitoring and managing potential side effects of treatment
- Providing emotional support to patients and their families
- Coordinating with other healthcare professionals such as dietitians and social workers to ensure comprehensive patient care
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse to join our team.
The Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse will provide specialized care for infants, children, and teenagers with gastrointestinal disorders.
The responsibilities include assessing patient conditions, implementing treatment plans, providing counseling to patients and their families, and collaborating with multidisciplinary team members.
Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of pediatric care, especially in the area of gastroenterology, and is able to handle stressful situations with empathy and resilience.
Responsibilities
- Conduct initial patient screenings and patient history and physical examinations
- Update patient records with recent findings and treatments
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests
- Provide education and guidance to patients and families about treatment plans and disease management
- Administer medication as prescribed by the pediatric gastroenterologist
- Coordinate with other healthcare professionals for patient care
- Monitor patient recovery and compile reports for the doctor
- Adhere to all relevant nursing professional and ethical standards
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a pediatric nurse, preferably in gastroenterology
- Current licensure as a Registered Nurse
- Specialty certification in pediatric nursing is a plus
- Knowledge of pediatric gastroenterology conditions and treatments
- Ability to handle a stressful environment and provide comfort to distressed patients and family members
- Strong ethics and a high level of personal and professional integrity
- BSc or other diploma from a nursing program
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse
- Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. Some nights, weekends, and holiday shifts may be required.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse or Pediatric Gastroenterologist.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $125,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Do?
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses are specialized medical professionals who work with children suffering from digestive system disorders.
They usually work in hospitals, clinics, and specialty medical facilities.
They provide care to children dealing with illnesses and conditions related to their liver, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract.
Common conditions treated include Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and nutritional problems.
These nurses monitor the patient’s health, administer prescribed medication, and assist doctors during procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses also provide education and emotional support to the child’s family, helping them understand the child’s condition and the necessary care routines.
Furthermore, they are involved in the management of feeding issues, including enteral and parenteral nutrition.
Often, they collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals, including dietitians and social workers, to ensure comprehensive care for the child.
Part of their role is to document and maintain accurate medical records of the patient’s progress and report any significant changes to the relevant medical personnel.
They may also participate in research studies related to pediatric gastroenterology.
Their job is challenging, as they need to communicate effectively with children of different ages and their families, providing care while also handling the emotional aspects of the job.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Qualifications and Skills
A Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse should have the skills and qualifications that correspond with the job description, such as:
- Specialized knowledge in pediatric nursing and gastroenterology to provide appropriate care for patients with digestive, liver, and nutritional problems.
- Assessment skills to monitor the health of patients, identify any health issues and accurately document medical information.
- Communication skills to clearly and empathetically explain procedures, medications, and diet modifications to both the child and their family.
- Interpersonal skills to build relationships with patients and their families, fostering a comfortable and trusting environment.
- Patient care skills to administer medication, provide comfort during procedures, and monitor patient response to treatment.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to make swift decisions in emergencies and plan the best course of care for patients.
- Teamwork abilities to collaborate effectively with a medical team that may include pediatricians, gastroenterologists, dieticians, and other nurses.
- Physical endurance and emotional resilience to cope with potentially demanding and stressful situations.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Experience Requirements
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses generally begin with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and gain clinical experience in pediatrics and gastroenterology during their study.
Entry-level pediatric gastroenterology nurses typically have 1 to 2 years of nursing experience, ideally within a pediatric setting.
The following years of experience, usually up to 3 years, should ideally be spent in a specialized role related to pediatric gastroenterology.
This would involve providing care to infants, children, and adolescents with gastrointestinal disorders, assisting doctors with procedures, and educating patients and their families about the care and treatment plans.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often possess a strong clinical base in pediatric nursing and are proficient in gastroenterology procedures, such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and liver biopsy.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses with over 5 years of experience have usually completed additional training and education, such as a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification or a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) credential.
At this level, nurses often take on more advanced roles, such as managing a team of nurses, coordinating care, and developing treatment plans.
They may also engage in research or teaching roles within the pediatric gastroenterology field.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Education and Training Requirements
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses, as specialized healthcare professionals, need to begin their education with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN).
This program generally lasts four years and combines theoretical nursing concepts with practical experience.
Upon completion of the BSN, aspiring Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to earn their licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Once they become licensed RNs, these nurses often work in a pediatric setting for a few years to gain hands-on experience before they specialize in gastroenterology.
Advanced training and certification in pediatric gastroenterology nursing can be acquired through the Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates.
This specialized certification involves fulfilling specific work-hour requirements in the gastroenterology field and passing an examination.
Additional ongoing training and education are recommended to stay updated with the latest advancements and research in pediatric gastroenterology.
Master’s degrees or doctoral degrees in nursing, although not mandatory, might be beneficial for those who wish to progress into research, teaching, or high-level administrative roles within this specialty.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Salary Expectations
A Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse earns an average salary of $90,000 (USD) per year.
The exact amount can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, certification, geographical location, and the size and type of the healthcare facility.
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse Job Description FAQs
What skills are required for a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse?
A Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse should have strong clinical skills, particularly in gastroenterology, as well as a deep understanding of pediatric nursing.
Excellent communication skills are crucial for interacting with young patients and their families.
They should be empathetic, patient, and able to handle stressful situations.
Additionally, they should be detail-oriented, able to multitask, and possess strong problem-solving skills.
What qualifications does a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse need?
To become a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse, one must first become a registered nurse (RN) by completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN examination.
They should then gain experience in pediatric nursing.
Some choose to further specialize by obtaining a Pediatric Gastroenterology certification from a professional nursing organization.
What are the duties of a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse?
A Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse focuses on the care of children with gastrointestinal diseases and disorders.
Their duties include monitoring symptoms, administering medication, providing emotional support to patients and their families, assisting in diagnostic procedures such as endoscopies, and educating patients and families on disease management and prevention.
What are the challenges faced by a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse?
Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurses often deal with complex and emotionally challenging cases, as their patients are children suffering from serious gastrointestinal conditions.
They need to handle anxious families and ensure that the child is comfortable and understands the treatment process.
The role requires continuous learning due to advancements in pediatric gastroenterology.
What should I look for in a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse’s resume?
Look for a valid RN license and a degree in nursing.
Experience in pediatric nursing and/or gastroenterology is crucial.
Any additional certifications, particularly in pediatric gastroenterology, are a plus.
Also, look for skills such as strong communication, empathy, and the ability to handle high-stress situations, as these are crucial for this role.
Conclusion
So there you have it.
Today, we’ve revealed the essence of being a Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse.
Surprised?
It’s not just about administering medication.
It’s about shaping the future of children’s healthcare, one patient at a time.
With our all-inclusive Pediatric Gastroenterology Nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.
But why stop there?
Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal companion for crafting precision-based listings or refining your resume to perfection.
Keep this in mind:
Every patient care is a part of the bigger picture.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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