If you want to work closely with children and make a difference in their healthcare journey, then a career as a Pediatric Medical Assistant is perfectly suited for you.
They handle both the medical and emotional needs of young patients while supporting pediatricians in delivering the highest standard of care.
In this article, we’ll discuss Pediatric Medical Assistants, their work settings, salary, job prospects, job duties, and skills.
Plus, we’ll also take a sneak peek at a day in their life so you can have a clear understanding of the role.
Lastly, we’ve prepared a step-by-step guide to help you understand how you can start this career faster in as little as 6 months without driving to college or without any student loan debt.
So, let’s get started.
Pediatric Medical Assistant
A Pediatric Medical Assistant specializes in assisting pediatricians and healthcare professionals in caring for children, from infants to teenagers.
This role combines general medical assistant duties with child-specific care, making it unique and rewarding for those passionate about working with young patients.
They play a critical role in making children feel comfortable in healthcare settings while ensuring that medical procedures run smoothly.
Work Setting
Pediatric Medical Assistants typically work in various healthcare environments that focus on pediatric care.
This field offers the opportunity to combine medical knowledge with the rewards of working closely with children and their families, making it a highly desirable career path.
These settings include:
Pediatrician’s Offices
The most common setting is where they assist with daily clinical and administrative duties, including preparing young patients for exams, managing immunizations, and assisting pediatricians.
Hospitals
Especially in pediatric units or specialized children’s hospitals, assisting nurses and doctors with treatments and routine patient care.
Outpatient Clinics
In urgent care or specialty pediatric clinics where children may need specific treatments like allergy testing or asthma management.
Schools and Community Health Centers
Working with children in educational environments or community-based clinics to manage health issues and perform health screenings.
Salary
The salary of a Pediatric Medical Assistant can vary based on location, experience, and work setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2023, the median annual wage for Medical Assistants was around $42,000.
The top earners in the field can make more than $56,480 per year, while those just starting out or in lower-paying regions may earn less than $33,500 per year.
Pediatric Medical Assistants in larger metropolitan areas or those with specialized skills may see higher salary brackets.
Additionally, obtaining certification, like becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), can further enhance earning potential.
Job Prospects
The job outlook for Medical Assistants, including those working in pediatrics, is highly positive.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% growth in employment for Medical Assistants from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for other professions.
This increase is expected to create approximately 119,800 job openings annually over the next decade.
Job Duties of a Pediatric Medical Assistant
Pediatric Medical Assistants play a crucial role in providing care and support to young patients and their families.
Their duties combine clinical and administrative tasks, tailored specifically to the needs of children.
Here are some of their key responsibilities:
Preparing Patients for Exams and Procedures
Pediatric Medical Assistants are often the first point of contact for young patients. They help make the child comfortable, take their vital signs (such as height, weight, and temperature), and prepare them for exams or treatments.
For example, before a pediatrician arrives, the medical assistant might explain to the child what will happen during the visit in a way that’s easy for them to understand, reducing anxiety and making the process smoother.
Administering Vaccinations
One of the primary clinical duties is to assist with or directly administer vaccinations to children, depending on state regulations. Pediatric Medical Assistants are trained to explain the importance of vaccines to parents and calm children who may be scared.
For example, they might use distraction techniques like giving a small toy or talking to the child about their favorite cartoon to help them feel less nervous.
Performing Basic Lab Work
Pediatric Medical Assistants often collect specimens such as throat swabs for strep tests, or urine samples, and perform basic lab tests in the clinic.
For instance, if a child comes in with a sore throat, the medical assistant may conduct a rapid strep test, which helps the doctor diagnose and start treatment quickly.
Recording Medical Histories
Before the pediatrician sees the patient, the medical assistant gathers information about the child’s medical history, current symptoms, and any medications they are taking.
This is especially important in pediatrics, as children often have rapidly changing health needs and growth patterns.
For example, they might ask a parent about recent illnesses or any developmental milestones the child has reached.
Assisting with Procedures
Pediatric Medical Assistants help the pediatrician during procedures, such as suturing or applying bandages.
For instance, if a child needs stitches after a fall, the assistant may help by calming the child, holding the necessary instruments, or cleaning the wound before the doctor proceeds.
Maintaining Patient Records
Administrative tasks are also a significant part of their job. Pediatric Medical Assistants update patient records, schedule follow-up appointments, and ensure that all medical documentation is complete and accurate.
For example, after a vaccination, they would record the immunization in both the clinic’s system and any required state databases.
Supporting Parents
In pediatrics, communication with parents is as crucial as working with the children. Pediatric Medical Assistants often provide parents with instructions for aftercare, such as how to manage post-vaccination symptoms or when to return for follow-up visits.
For example, they may reassure a concerned parent about mild side effects like fever or swelling after a vaccine and provide advice on how to alleviate discomfort.
Skills of a Pediatric Medical Assistant
Pediatric Medical Assistants require a unique set of skills to effectively work with children and support pediatricians in clinical settings.
Their skills ensure they can handle both the medical and emotional needs of young patients while supporting pediatricians in delivering the highest standard of care.
Let’s explore these skills in detail:
Communication Skills
One of the most critical skills for a Pediatric Medical Assistant is effective communication. Working with children means being able to explain medical procedures in simple, non-threatening language that kids can understand.
For instance, when preparing a child for a vaccination, a Pediatric Medical Assistant might explain, “This will feel like a little pinch, and then it’s all over,” helping the child feel less anxious.
Additionally, communication with parents is equally important, as they often need clear explanations about their child’s health, medications, or treatment plans.
Patience and Compassion
Children can be fearful, anxious, or uncooperative during medical visits, so patience and compassion are key. Pediatric Medical Assistants must remain calm and empathetic, even in stressful situations.
For example, if a child is crying or refusing to cooperate during an exam, the assistant needs to use a kind and gentle approach, providing reassurance and perhaps engaging the child with a favorite toy or game to gain their trust.
Attention to Detail
Pediatric Medical Assistants must have strong attention to detail, particularly when it comes to measuring and recording vital signs, administering vaccines, or maintaining accurate medical records.
For example, when calculating the correct dosage of medication based on a child’s weight, even a small mistake could have serious consequences. Ensuring that each task is completed with precision is crucial in pediatric care.
Knowledge of Pediatric Growth and Development
Understanding the stages of childhood growth and development is essential for Pediatric Medical Assistants. They need to be aware of developmental milestones and how children of different ages might respond to medical care.
For instance, a toddler may need a completely different approach than a teenager during a doctor’s visit. This knowledge helps them tailor their communication and care techniques based on the child’s age and maturity level.
Multitasking and Organizational Skills
Pediatric Medical Assistants often juggle multiple tasks throughout the day, such as preparing patients for exams, assisting with procedures, updating medical records, and answering parents’ questions.
Having strong organizational skills allows them to manage these responsibilities efficiently without compromising the quality of care.
For example, during a busy clinic day, they may need to ensure that a waiting room full of children is seen promptly while still providing individualized attention to each patient.
Technical Skills
Like all medical assistants, those working in pediatrics must have a firm grasp of clinical procedures, such as drawing blood, administering vaccines, and conducting basic laboratory tests.
Pediatric Medical Assistants must be adept at using medical equipment and following protocols to ensure safe and effective care for their young patients.
For example, when performing an EKG on a child, they must adjust the procedure based on the child’s size and comfort level.
Problem-Solving Abilities
Children can sometimes present unique challenges during medical appointments. Whether it’s calming a scared child, finding creative ways to distract them during a procedure, or explaining complex medical information to concerned parents, Pediatric Medical Assistants need to think on their feet.
For example, if a child is anxious about getting a shot, they might offer a distraction, like asking the child about their favorite superhero, to divert their attention.
A Day in the Life of a Pediatric Medical Assistant
A day in the life of a Pediatric Medical Assistant is both fast-paced and deeply rewarding. From calming anxious children to assisting in critical medical procedures, every moment is filled with a mix of technical expertise and heartfelt care.
Each day brings a unique blend of challenges and rewards, but at its core, the role is about making young patients feel safe and helping families navigate the healthcare process.
Here’s what a day in their life looks like:
Early Morning: Getting Ready for the Day
The day for a Pediatric Medical Assistant typically begins early. They arrive at the clinic or hospital before the first appointments, ensuring everything is prepared for the day’s patients.
This includes reviewing the appointment schedule, gathering medical supplies, and organizing patient charts. Since pediatric patients vary widely in age, from infants to teenagers, the assistant must be prepared for a wide range of medical needs—from routine check-ups to more specialized treatments.
Before the first patients arrive, they may check that all exam rooms are stocked with the necessary equipment and are in ready-for-use condition.
As the clinic opens, the Pediatric Medical Assistant greets the young patients and their parents, helping to create a welcoming and comfortable environment. In pediatric care, the first interaction is crucial for calming anxious children and building trust.
Mid-Morning: Patient Intake and Routine Exams
The mid-morning is often the busiest time, as the first wave of patients arrives. The assistant’s role involves taking vital signs, such as weight, height, temperature, and blood pressure, all while making the experience as smooth as possible for the child.
In this part of the day, communication is key. The Pediatric Medical Assistant uses kid-friendly language and sometimes even games or distractions to keep young patients calm during routine exams.
For example, while measuring a child’s blood pressure, they might say, “Let’s see how strong your arm muscles are!” to make the process fun rather than scary.
After gathering this information, the assistant updates the child’s medical records and briefs the pediatrician before the doctor’s visit begins.
Throughout the day, they maintain close communication with both the doctor and the parents, answering questions or addressing concerns as needed.
Afternoon: Assisting with Procedures and Vaccinations
As the afternoon rolls in, the focus shifts to assisting the pediatrician with more hands-on tasks like administering vaccinations, drawing blood, or performing lab tests.
This part of the day often requires even more patience and care, as children can be especially nervous about shots or medical procedures. A Pediatric Medical Assistant might comfort a frightened child by offering a favorite toy or using soothing words.
For example, they might explain a vaccination by comparing it to a “quick superhero shot” to help the child feel brave.
During this time, the assistant may also help the pediatrician with minor medical procedures or treatments, ensuring that all instruments are sterilized and ready for use.
Their role in these moments is not only technical but also supportive, helping the child feel secure and ensuring the doctor has everything they need.
Late Afternoon: Wrapping Up and Follow-Ups
By the late afternoon, the Pediatric Medical Assistant is typically finishing up patient visits and handling administrative duties. This may include updating patient charts, organizing lab results, and making follow-up calls to parents regarding test results or future appointments.
They may also restock medical supplies and ensure that the exam rooms are clean and organized for the next day.
Before leaving, they often engage in post-visit communication with parents, providing instructions for home care, medication, or scheduling future check-ups.
The ability to explain medical instructions clearly and compassionately is crucial in this final phase of the day, ensuring that both the child and parents leave feeling informed and reassured.
How to Become a Pediatric Medical Assistant?
Pediatric medical assistants play a vital role in supporting healthcare for children and assisting pediatricians in clinical and administrative tasks.
Their ability to connect with young patients, combined with medical skills, makes them invaluable in the field.
If you’re interested in this career path, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a pediatric medical assistant.
Step 1 -> Get a High School Diploma
The first step toward becoming a pediatric medical assistant is obtaining a high school diploma or GED.
During high school, taking science courses like biology, chemistry, and anatomy can provide a strong foundation for your medical studies.
Step 2 -> Enroll in a Medical Assistant Program
After earning your high school diploma, the next step in your journey to becoming a pediatric medical assistant is to enroll in a medical assistant program.
Formal education is considered the fastest and most reliable route for gaining the necessary skills and knowledge for this career.
There are different types of programs to choose from, and making the right choice is crucial for both your learning experience and future job prospects.
Traditional full-time medical assistant programs are usually offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and some universities. These programs typically last between 1 to 2 years, depending on whether you choose a diploma, certificate, or associate degree option.
While full-time programs provide in-depth, hands-on learning, they tend to be more expensive. On top of tuition, students need to consider additional costs like textbooks, lab fees, and commuting expenses.
Full-time programs also require a significant time commitment, which might be challenging for working adults or individuals with family obligations.
Moreover, their rigid schedules can limit flexibility, making them less ideal for non-traditional students who need to balance other responsibilities.
In contrast, online programs are growing in popularity due to their affordability, flexibility, and adult-friendly nature.
These programs allow students to study at their own pace, making it easier to fit coursework around a busy schedule. Online learning is especially suitable for students who are working or have other commitments.
Most online programs provide the same curriculum as traditional programs but in a more convenient format, allowing students to log in and complete assignments at their own convenience.
One standout option in this category is –
Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program
This program offers a comprehensive, flexible, and cost-effective solution for those seeking to enter the medical assistant field quickly.
This program is in association with Auburn University, a 150-year-old non-profit and accredited institution. So you get education from an accredited education.
Preppy’s program offers several key features designed to make your education journey smooth and efficient:
100% Online Learning
The entire course is conducted online, meaning you don’t have to drive to a physical campus or rearrange your life around set class times. You can study whenever and wherever suits you best.
Self-Paced Learning
One of the major benefits of this program is that it’s self-paced, allowing you to move as quickly or slowly through the material as you need. Whether you want to finish the program in as little as six months or take your time, this program gives you full control over your schedule.
Affordable Tuition
With a tuition fee of just $1,599, this program is much more affordable than many traditional programs. Plus, you can avoid the need for a costly student loan.
You Could become Ready for CCMA Certification
Once you complete the program, you could become fully prepared to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, which is a nationally recognized certification by the NHA.
This certification is highly valued by employers and can increase your earning potential and job prospects.
Externship Opportunity
Preppy’s program doesn’t just focus on theoretical learning. They provide assistance with an externship opportunity, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting local to your area, which is crucial for preparing for real-world work environments.
University Certificate
Upon completion, you will receive a certificate from accredited, non-profit, Auburn University, which adds significant credibility to your resume. Having a certificate from a recognized and reputable university gives you an edge when applying for jobs.
24/7 Support and a Big Bonus
Not only do students receive round-the-clock support for technical or course-related queries, but you also receive a free laptop when enrolling in the program, which is yours to keep even after completing the program.
So, by choosing the right program, you can complete your medical assistant education efficiently and begin your journey toward a rewarding career in pediatric care.
If this fascinates you, check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
Step 3 -> Complete the Coursework
During the program, you’ll complete coursework covering both the clinical and administrative responsibilities of a medical assistant.
Topics might include medical terminology, anatomy, patient care, office procedures, and electronic health record management.
In pediatric care, this coursework will teach you the specific nuances involved in working with children and infants.
Step 4 -> Get Externship Experience
Hands-on experience is crucial. Many programs, including Preppy’s, offer externship opportunities that give you real-world experience in a healthcare setting.
You’ll be able to practice what you’ve learned under the guidance of experienced professionals, working directly with patients and honing your skills.
For pediatric specialization, this externship opportunity will be especially valuable as it exposes you to the unique challenges of working with young patients.
Step 5 -> Prepare for Certification and Get CCMA Certified
After completing your coursework and externship, the next step is certification. While certification is not always required, most employers prefer certified medical assistants, and it opens up more job opportunities.
The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification by the NHA is one of the most recognized certifications in the field.
To prepare for the exam, you can use other study materials if needed, but your medical assistant program should have provided the necessary knowledge to pass the test.
Step 6 -> Work as a Medical Assistant
Once certified, you can start working as a medical assistant. Many pediatric medical assistants begin their careers in general medical offices, gaining broad experience that will be helpful when transitioning to pediatrics. Working in various healthcare settings allows you to build confidence in your medical and administrative skills.
Step 7 -> Switch to Pediatric Specialty
As you gain more experience, you can begin to specialize in pediatrics. Look for opportunities to work in pediatric clinics, hospitals, or private practices that focus on children’s healthcare.
Additionally, consider pursuing certifications or continuing education courses in pediatric care to further enhance your qualifications and knowledge in the field.
In Conclusion
Pediatric Medical Assistants create a comforting, efficient, and safe environment for children and their families.
They handle both the medical and emotional needs of young patients while supporting pediatricians in delivering the highest standard of care.
We hope this article helped you understand everything about Pediatric Medical Assistants, what a day in their life looks like, and how you can become one.
Ultimately, if you want to start this career faster and potentially become job-ready as a medical assistant at an affordable price, from the comfort of your home, with a course from an accredited, non-profit institution, then check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
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