Child Life Specialist- Palliative Care

About the role

Assess pediatric patients' psychosocial and developmental needs during hospitalization and develop a plan for the facilitation of therapeutic interventions. Promote the pediatric patient's normal growth and development while in the health care setting and after returning home. Provide assessment, intervention(s), education, and resources/referral(s) for children/siblings of hospitalized patients.

Responsibilities

• Assess patient's psychosocial/developmental needs and facilitate interventions such as coping assessment, individual support, group support, procedural and surgical preparation and support, medical play, and developmental screening and age-appropriate education.
• Provide psychosocial support and opportunities for continued coping mastery and normal growth and development, including post-hospital interventions, school re-entry programs, and referrals to school and community programs.
• Assist with the identification and implementation of non-pharmacological pain management techniques in pediatric patients.
• Provide information and support to parents/caregivers regarding developmental needs and interventions, including behavior, discipline, parenting issues, infant brain development, and health-related concerns.
• Participate in multidisciplinary meetings, including daily rounds, patient care conferences, and trauma or event debriefings.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with members of the healthcare team.
• Identify and coordinate family meetings based on the needs of the pediatric patient and/or sibling(s).
• Provide grief and bereavement support to children and/or siblings of hospitalized patients.
• Prepare siblings/parents/caregivers for visitation and anticipated events related to treatment, and provide support.
• Maintain appropriate documentation in patient medical records regarding developmental needs and coping.
• Provide interdisciplinary in-services and student teaching on developmental concerns and the impact of illness, injury, and hospitalization on children and families.
• Present educational programs on child development to staff.
• Assist with coordinating community donations for pediatric patient populations and serve as a liaison to the Parkland Foundation for donor events.
• Order, stock, and maintain supplies as needed for the patient population.
• Identify ways to improve work processes and customer satisfaction; make recommendations to supervisors and monitor results.
• Stay abreast of latest developments, advancements, and trends in the field through seminars, workshops, professional journals, and active participation in professional organizations.
• Maintain knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws, and guidelines impacting the area.
• Develop effective internal controls to promote adherence with applicable laws, accreditation requirements, and health plans.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Child Life, Child Development, or a closely related field in accordance with the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP).
• Completed Child Life internship.
• One year of child life experience preferred.
• Must obtain licensure as a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) within six months of hire date.

Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication in a professional manner, both on the phone and in person.
• Ability to interact effectively and positively with peers, executive and medical staff, patients/families, community groups, and clients.
• Effective organization skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to provide clear and accurate direction and guidance.
• Demonstrated cultural awareness while interacting with patients, families, and medical staff from varied backgrounds.
• Ability to seek advice and guidance as needed to ensure proper understanding and collaboration.

Requisition ID: 989369