Works under the supervision of Child Life leadership to assist the child and/or family in identifying the psychosocial and developmental factors which impact their health care experience. Provides Child Life assessment and intervention independently to assigned patient population within the guidelines designated by department and hospital policy and procedures. Collaborates as a member of the interdisciplinary team to develop and administer an individualized plan of care. Demonstrates clinical competency in direct patient care and is responsible for completion of 100% of basic Child Life competencies set forth by the Association of Child Life Professionals. Continues to expand knowledge and skill through mentorship, educational opportunities, etc. Also required are strong interpersonal communication skills, a high degree of creativity, effective time and resource management, flexibility, strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to learn and utilize computer applications.

Essential Functions:

1. Works as a member of the healthcare team to address developmental, emotional, psychosocial and individual needs of patients to promote coping and adjustment to hospitalization.
2. Extends support to family members with respect to their needs, cultural values and beliefs.
3. Demonstrates proficiency in the care of pediatrics, adolescents and young adults.
4. Demonstrates proficiency in the care of neonates as required by assignment.
5. Provides information/effective treatment strategies and support to families while considering the lifelong implications for various diagnoses of patients seen within the department.
6. Completes timely documentation as required by Therapeutic Services department policy, JCAHO and CARF standards.
7. Attends meetings related to patient treatment and contributes to discussion as an interdisciplinary team member.
8. Attends in-services/continuing education; provides updates in the form of in-services to the department.
9. Participates in meeting goals of the department.
10. Provides family/child education regarding diagnosis, treatment and the impact of hospitalization to increase understanding and minimize trauma and disruption in normal growth and development.
11. Utilizes stress reduction techniques to facilitate adaptive coping during procedures and throughout hospital experience.
12. Uses developmentally appropriate and medically accurate information to prepare children and families for diagnostic and treatment procedures, as defined in the Child Life preparation protocol. Psychological preparation will be provided in such a way that knowledge is increased, and emotional needs are supported.
13. Provides medical play to allow children to explore, express, cope and gain a sense of mastery and control over their hospitalization and related fears, fantasies and concerns.
14. Assesses patients need for therapeutic, developmental and social/recreational play and provide as appropriate.