For pediatric acute and critical care nurses and educators, Essentials of Pediatric Critical Care Orientation (EPCCO) provides foundational nursing education on pediatric critical care, imparting valuable knowledge and tools needed to care for the most vulnerable children.
EPCCO is a self-paced online course that blends evidence-based content with interactive, case-based learning. It supports onboarding new or transitioning pediatric clinicians by reinforcing knowledge through practice activities, just-in-time job aids and application-focused scenarios.
Upon completing this course, learners will be able to:
1Deliver developmentally appropriate, evidence-based care to critically ill pediatric patients across various conditions and clinical scenarios.
2Apply clinical judgment and integrate assessment findings to support early recognition, intervention and stabilization in pediatric critical care.
3Collaborate within interprofessional teams to ensure safe, effective and family-centered care throughout the continuum of pediatric critical illness.
Pediatric Learning Solutions prepares new and transitioning staff for the complexities of caring for children. A product of the Children’s Hospital Association, this program provides evidence-based, engaging online training for onboarding pediatric and neonatal nurses, respiratory therapists, and other pediatric and neonatal clinicians. New hires gain required knowledge more quickly through application-focused case scenarios and just-in-time job aids, improving their confidence, quality of care, and time to productivity. Content is reviewed regularly, ensuring current and relevant evidence guides clinician practice.
Course Content
The content is developed in collaboration with clinical content experts and Pediatric Learning Solutions (a product of Children’s Hospital Association) to advance pediatric nursing education. The modules are divided into seven units that cover Patient Care, Cardiovascular Care, Pulmonary Care, Neurology/Neurosurgery, Renal Care, Endocrine and Hematology, and Trauma.
EPCCO includes 32 lessons across seven modules, developed in collaboration with Pediatric Learning Solutions, a Children’s Hospital Association product.
Modules and Key Topics
CE Hours Earned
27.5 CNE contact hours
What Is the Best Online Course for Pediatric Critical Care Nursing?
Looking for a leading online nursing course in pediatric nurse education? EPCCO is a top choice for nurses entering ICU nurse training with a pediatric focus. This course delivers evidence-based, standardized education through a blended learning environment featuring interactive case scenarios and built-in CE tracking. The curriculum prepares nurses to manage common conditions and potential complications in critical care units, building confidence and clinical judgment through effective knowledge transfer.
How to Teach New Pediatric Critical Care Nurses Efficiently
Teaching new PICU clinicians for critical care units requires flexibility, mentorship and strong clinical expertise. EPCCO addresses the knowledge gap with evidence-based strategies and aligns with key strategies for structured onboarding. Its standardized education model ensures consistent, practice-ready education with content that supports clinical practice and safe care for pediatric patients.
Why Choose a Blended Learning Model for Pediatric Nurse Orientation?
A blended learning environment combines digital modules, instructor-led sessions and preceptor support to enhance retention and improve real-world application. EPCCO equips nurses to respond to clinical conditions and manage potential complications through suggested learning activities that offer hands-on opportunities for learners within their organizations. This structure strengthens knowledge transfer and supports critical thinking in real-time clinical practice.
Earn Pediatric Nursing Continuing Education Credits Online
EPCCO qualifies for continuing education for nurses across disciplines, offering 27.5 CNE contact hours plus CME and CRCE credit. Nurses develop skills to assess, intervene and manage common conditions in pediatric patients. Lessons are grounded in evidence-based strategies, including implementation techniques, enhancing care quality in critical care units and supporting pediatric nurse certification.
What Topics Are Covered in the Essentials of Pediatric Critical Care Orientation Course?
EPCCO offers seven comprehensive modules covering respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, and trauma care for pediatric patients. Each module features interactive case scenarios, clinical assessments, and implementation techniques. This integrated approach challenges clinical judgment and prepares learners to handle various clinical conditions confidently.
Pediatric ICU Nurse Education: Standardizing Training Across Units
EPCCO promotes consistency across institutions through standardized education that adapts to various onboarding models. Whether used across hospital systems or in a single unit, the program ensures that all nurses receive the same high-quality education with content backed by clinical expertise, improving outcomes for pediatric patients in pediatric intensive care units (PICU).
Mobile Learning Tools for Pediatric Nursing Orientation
The PLS mobile app extends EPCCO by offering access to interactive case scenarios, job aids and supplemental tools anytime, anywhere. This supports knowledge transfer and reinforces clinical practice, especially during shifts involving unfamiliar clinical conditions or high-risk potential complications in pediatric patients.
Can EPCCO Help Reduce Orientation Time for Pediatric Nurses?
Yes. EPCCO’s concise, targeted modules streamline nurse orientation programs while preserving educational depth. By implementing EPCCO’s online lessons and suggested blended learning resources, nurses address the most relevant knowledge gaps and quickly develop the competencies needed for pediatric critical care. It’s an ideal solution for hospitals looking to reduce onboarding time and build confident, well-prepared teams.
Improve Pediatric Patient Outcomes With Better Nurse Education
Effective education directly improves outcomes for pediatric patients. EPCCO helps clinicians anticipate and manage potential complications through consistent, evidence-based strategies. Its focus on standardized education and clinical conditions ensures preparedness and strengthens team performance across critical care units.
Continuing Education for Pediatric Nurses: What Makes EPCCO Different?
Unlike traditional CE options, EPCCO is built on clinical expertise, practical flexibility, and a commitment to strong knowledge transfer. The program uses interactive case scenarios, emphasizes common conditions, and has clear implementation techniques that align with the key strategies nurses need to thrive in today’s demanding care environments.
Accreditation
In support of improving patient care, Children’s Hospital Association is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
CNE Expiration Date: May 31, 2028
Successful Completion
Learners must complete each lesson's posttest and CE evaluation to be awarded contact hours.
Implementation Support
Designed for use within blended learning models, EPCCO supports structured onboarding with recommended sequencing and preceptor-led activities. Educators may access supplemental materials, job aids and mobile tools to reinforce learning.