Nursing
The pediatric cardiac intensive care unit, step-down unit (7C), cardiac catheterization laboratories and same day observation unit are all staffed by registered nurses with expertise in managing children with heart defects. They have the training, skills and desire to help deliver the best care to their patients. There are especially cognizant of pain and distress in children, regardless of their age. They are part of an active multidisciplinary team dedicated to prevent and minimize pain and distress as much as possible. Behavioral and psychological techniques as well as non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments are used, with the goal of preventing and minimizing pain without simply “medicating” the child.  Family support and waiting services
The hospital, medical and surgical experiences can be upsetting and stressful for children and their families. The staff at MUSC Children’s Hospital recognizes we are not simply treating the heart disease but we are caring for the whole child and their family. The team utilizes their skills to support and promote the developmental progress and emotional well-being of children and their families. This is accomplished through:
Child life specialists
The child life staff have specialized training and experience in understanding children's reactions to illness and hospitalization. The child life department is staffed by professionals who hold degrees in child life, child development, education and related fields. The purpose of the child life program is to encourage emotional well-being and normal development in healthcare settings through the use of play, education and support. The goals of the child life department are as follows: - To facilitate play opportunities, at the bedside and in playrooms, which enhance continued growth and development.
- To create a sense of normalcy by helping children maintain independence, self-esteem and control.
- To minimize stress by encouraging positive coping behaviors.
- To help children prepare for and understand medical procedures and experiences.
The Child Life Atrium is a safe haven where there are no invasive medical procedures or questions. It is set up in age-specific "centers" designed to meet the interests of infants and toddlers, school-age children and teens. Additional support for the family includes: - Chaplains available around the clock to assist with the spiritual and emotional needs of children and their families
- Social workers and case managers assist with financial and practical resources for families.
- An on site teacher available to help children continue with school work during the hospitalization.
- Communication is facilitated with families of all ethnic backgrounds through interpreters that are available 24 hours per day.
- Accommodations are available in the nearby Ronald McDonald house for families with children in the PCICU.
- All cardiac step-down rooms (7C) are private rooms, designed with children in mind, with in-room sleeping available for family members.
- The Children’s Hospital’s location is convenient to lodging, shopping, dining, historic attractions and beaches for your time away from the hospital.
- Access to Carepages, an online personal tool that parents can use to post updates on their child’s recovery and receive support.
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