Child Life Intern - Inpatient Pediatrics

Carle Health•Urbana, IL

2d•$18 - $18

About The Position

The Child life intern, under the direct supervision of a certified Child Life Specialist, will train to provide care and support to children in the healthcare setting through gaining exposure to unique psychosocial issues during the 600-hour internship program. Selection of an intern is based on academic preparation, professional experience with children, knowledge of child development, child life experience and interviews.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree: Child Development
Bachelor's Degree: Early Childhood Education
Bachelor's Degree: Psychology
Bachelor's Degree: Related Field

Responsibilities

Observe Certified Child Life Specialist in various units (Pediatrics, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Radiology, One Day Surgery, and the Emergency Department) to increase one’s knowledge and understanding regarding the daily clinical and non-clinical work of a CLS.
Observe Certified Child Life Specialist provide preparation (e.g., psychological, educational) along with bereavement support initially and then facilitate these services yourself.
Identify, obtain, and use relevant information (e.g., health care, family, child, developmental stage, theory) regarding the child and family to develop an individualized assessment and create a plan of care.
Identify developmental factors and their implications regarding the child’s health care experience to plan appropriate interventions.
Identify psychosocial factors (e.g., diversity, culture, spirituality, family dynamics and structure, coping styles, socioeconomic status) and family needs and goals in order to deliver patient- and family-centered care.
Provide psychosocial and developmentally appropriate support that is responsive to the specific needs of children and families.
Facilitate the development of coping strategies for children and families (e.g., pain management, Comfort holds, alternative focus, therapeutic play) in order to minimize distress and promote empowerment.
Evaluate and document assessments, goals, interventions, outcomes, and significant events to communicate and modify care plans as necessary.
Facilitate play (e.g., recreational, health care, therapeutic) and familiar life experiences in order to encourage expression, process information, and promote development and normalization.
Empower and collaborate with children and families to develop and use advocacy skills
Identify the importance behind pain management tools and implement options with families as appropriate.
Obtain a working knowledge of medical procedures and terminology
Promote professional relationships (e.g., patients and families, child life team, interdisciplinary teams, community resources) in order to enhance communication and collaboration, foster patient- and family-centered care, and maximize positive outcomes.