Founded in 1906, McLeod Health is a locally owned and managed, not for profit organization supported by the strength of more than 900 members on its medical staff and more than 2,900 licensed nurses. McLeod Health is also composed of approximately 15,000 team members and more than 90 physician practices throughout its 18-county service area. With seven hospitals, McLeod Health operates three Health and Fitness Centers, a Sports Medicine and Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, Hospice and Home Health Services. The system currently has 988 licensed beds, including Hospice and Behavioral Health. The hospitals within McLeod Health include: McLeod Regional Medical Center, McLeod Health Dillon, McLeod Health Loris, McLeod Health Seacoast, McLeod Health Cheraw, McLeod Health Clarendon and McLeod Behavioral Health.  

Child Life Specialist - Pediatrics/Children Hospital-Full time/Days

Responsibilities:

Job Summary: The Child Life Specialist collaborates with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and address the child's needs. They advocate for the child's well-being, ensuring their needs are met and their voice is heard within the healthcare setting and provide support and guidance to parents and family members, helping them cope with their own emotional challenges and the impact of the child's illness. 

Provides emotional support, helping children and families process their experiences, fears, and anxieties related to illness and hospitalization. Prepares children for medical procedures, explaining what to expect in an age-appropriate manner and using play to simulate or practice procedures. Offers information about medical diagnoses, treatments, and hospital routines, helping children and families understand their situation. Assess the child's and family's needs and develop individualized care plans. Create a safe and comfortable environment for children and families, promoting a sense of normalcy and well-being. Helps children develop coping skills through play, art, music, and other forms of self-expression. Evaluate the effectiveness of child life programs and identify areas for improvement. Other duties as assigned.

Schedule: Full Time; Days

Qualifications:

This position requires satisfaction of the Child Life Certifying Commission’s coursework and internship requirements prior to the start of employment. This includes 600 child life internship hours under the supervision of a certified child life specialist.

 Education Requirements:
● Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Child Life or a related field that meets the Child Life Council's recommendation for coursework concentration in Child Life.
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
● Certification by the Child Life Certifying Commission within twelve (12) months of hire.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS: 
Reports to VP of Patient Services