A significant step forward in pediatric healthcare has been taken by Logan Regional Hospital with the introduction of their first-ever child life specialist. This professional plays a vital role in easing the stress and anxiety that children and their families often face during medical treatments or surgeries. Trained in child development, coping strategies, and family systems, Leticia Clegg is now part of Intermountain Children’s Health's team of 70 specialists across the state. Since January, she has supported over 250 children, making their hospital visits more manageable and less daunting.
Parents have noticed a marked improvement in their children's experiences thanks to Clegg's personalized approach. Her services extend beyond the pediatric ward into the emergency room and are fully funded by donations, ensuring that all families can benefit from her expertise without financial burden.
Empowering Young Patients Through Personalized Support
Leticia Clegg specializes in helping young patients navigate the complexities of medical procedures by offering age-appropriate explanations and tools for understanding what lies ahead. She uses visual aids like photos and real medical supplies to demystify the process, enabling children to anticipate their journey through the hospital. Furthermore, Clegg collaborates with each child to develop a tailored coping strategy, empowering them with methods to manage their anxiety throughout their treatment.
In practice, Clegg engages deeply with every child under her care. For instance, when nine-year-old Kobi underwent same-day surgery, Clegg was instrumental in alleviating both the child's and her parents' worries. By holding Kobi's hand until she fell asleep due to anesthesia and keeping her family informed at every stage, Clegg demonstrated the compassionate nature of her work. Parents such as Jesica Egbert commend her efforts, noting how significantly they reduce stress levels for everyone involved. This hands-on support not only reassures children but also gives them some control over their situation, which markedly enhances their overall experience.
Comprehensive Services Funded Entirely by Community Donations
Beyond just supporting children on the pediatric floor, Leticia Clegg extends her reach into the emergency room, providing essential assistance wherever needed within the hospital. Her comprehensive services aim to ensure that every child receives optimal care regardless of the department they visit. Importantly, these invaluable services are made possible solely through generous community contributions, allowing families access without incurring additional costs.
Clegg emphasizes that her services come free of charge, inviting any family requiring such support to request it without hesitation. This accessibility underscores the commitment of Logan Regional Hospital to delivering high-quality pediatric care accessible to all. The reliance on donations highlights the importance of community involvement in sustaining this crucial service. As Clegg continues her mission to transform pediatric healthcare experiences, she remains steadfast in her dedication to making each child's hospital stay as positive and supportive as possible. Through her efforts, countless families find comfort knowing their children receive expert guidance tailored specifically to their needs, enhancing their trust in the healthcare system while fostering an environment conducive to healing and growth.