Pediatric Nurses Week celebrates every nurse who cares for children across units, specialties, and settings. Within the field of pediatrics, some nurses go on to specialize in pediatric emergency care. We asked 2026 Distinguished CPEN Solomiya Veturys, MSN, RN, CPEN, why pediatric nurses deserve to be celebrated, what she loves most about her work, and what she would tell nurses considering the specialty.
Why do pediatric nurses deserve to be celebrated?
Pediatric nurses deserve to be celebrated because they provide highly specialized, compassionate care to children and families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Pediatric nurses are more than caregivers. They are educators, advocates, and trusted partners for families navigating illness, injury, and uncertainty.
In the emergency department specifically, pediatric nurses must make rapid clinical decisions, recognize subtle changes in a child’s condition, and provide family-centered care in high-stress situations. Their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for children make an immeasurable impact on patients, families, and the communities they serve.
What three things do you love most about being a pediatric emergency nurse?
Making a difference during a family’s hardest moments. It’s the opportunity to be there when families need us the most.
The resilience of children. Children inspire me every day. Even after experiencing illness, injury, or trauma, their strength, courage, and ability to bounce back are remarkable.
The people I work alongside. Pediatric emergency care is truly a team effort.
What’s your advice for nurses considering the pediatric emergency nursing specialty?
Pediatric emergency nursing is a challenging and fast-paced specialty, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’ll have the privilege of caring for children and supporting families during some of their most vulnerable moments. Stay curious, ask questions, and lean on your team as you grow.
Most importantly, remember that your compassion can make just as much of an impact as your clinical skills. It’s a career that will challenge you, inspire you, and remind you every day why nursing matters.
Thank you to Solomiya and to all pediatric nurses for the compassion and expertise you bring to children and families every day.
Go Deeper
Get to know Solomiya even better in her 2026 Distinguished CPEN Meet the Winner interview.
Interested in pediatric emergency nursing? Learn more about CPEN certification and what it takes to specialize.
