Pediatric nursing is part of the nursing profession, specifically revolving around the care of neonates and children up to adolescence. The word, pediatrics, comes from the Greek words 'paedia' (child) and 'iatrike' (physician). 'Paediatrics' is the British/Australian spelling, while 'pediatrics' is the American spelling. Disciplines Direct nursing Nursing functions vary regionally, by individual education, experience, and individual career goals. These functions include the administration of procedures and medicines according to prescribed nursing care plans. Nurses observe vital signs and develop communication skills with children and family members, as well as with other medical personnel. Awareness of the concerns of children and parents, physical presence at times of stress, and helping children and family members cope are common functions of direct nursing care Neonatal nursing Neonatal nurses specialize in working with the youngest patients(infants). Neonatal nursing focuses on providing care and support for newborn babies delivered prematurely or who are suffering from health problems such as birth defects, infections, or heart deformities. Many neonatal nurses work in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) providing specialized medical care to at-risk newborns. A dysmature newborn "is one whose developmental level is poor at birth. These newborns require a special type of care, due to their health issues, such as: Inadequate respiratory function Poor control of body temperature Increased tendency to bleed Poor resistance to infection Poor nutrition Immature kidneys and skin Jaundice Neonatal nurses employ medical techniques, including the use of incubators. Essentially, the incubator "provide[s] proper heat, humidity, oxygen, and mist... and protection from infection." The medical apparatus provides essential medical care for at-risk newborns. Emergency nursing Pediatric nurses are expected to provide a quick response to stressful circumstances in life-threatening situations. Key features of pediatric emergency nursing include: Handling multifaceted trauma, injury or illness cases without letting the patients succumb to the urgency of the situation Stabilizing patients Quickly diagnosing conditions and providing on-spot solutions Administering appropriate medications to address pain Upgrading skills and knowledge Remaining patient and caring for the traumatized families accompanying the patient Maintaining equanimity around patients who do not improve. Pediatric nurse practitioners Pediatric nurse practitioner must attend school for at least two years after earning a bachelor's degree, pass an examination, and apply to their state board of nursing. Psychiatric Nursing Some pediatric nurses can choose to return to school for their masters in psychiatric nursing. Pediatric psychiatric nurses are responsible for caring for children and