Caring for pediatric patients comes with its own unique set of challenges — ones that require patience, adaptability, and a deep sense of compassion. Having to care for both pediatric and adult patients on a mixed unit such as South Sacramento’s 4 East adds another layer of complexity to these challenges.

The pediatric education initiative was developed by a small group of staff nurses in response to a recently signed agreement where all incoming and existing nurses on 4 East will be trained in pediatric care.

This helps ensure that pediatric patients on our unit always receive care from well-trained, dedicated nurses capable of providing the highest standard of care. Through a structured combination of classroom teaching, hands-on simulation, and guided mentorship, we focus on building strong pediatric assessment skills, age-appropriate communication techniques, and confidence in managing acute pediatric conditions. Our training starts with a class led by a handful of seasoned pediatric nurses in collaboration with pediatricians and respiratory therapists.

The new pediatric nurses then work closely with experienced preceptors who provide real-time feedback and reinforce evidence-based practices. By offering consistent support and targeted learning opportunities, the initiative enhances clinical competence, strengthens teamwork, and ultimately improves the quality of care delivered to pediatric patients. Since the peds initiative started this year, we have had 10 nurses that completed peds training and another cohort of 5 actively onboarding.

There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching our peers — our new pediatric nurses — develop the skills and confidence to care for pediatric patients, and being part of that journey has been truly special and extremely rewarding.