Abstract
Over the past 25 years, extensive technological and medical advances have had a major impact on the way pediatric nursing is practiced. Pediatric nurses have expanded their nursing roles, established professional organizations and certification standards to ensure clinical competence at the bedside, and tirelessly advocated for the health care needs of children and their families. In addition, pediatric nurses have collaborated with other health care providers to institute family-centered and developmentally appropriate philosophies of care. All of these changes will assist pediatric nurses to remain focused on the most important aspect of their work: Supporting the unique needs of children and their families.