Patient Support Volunteer

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The role of a Patient Support volunteer is to work as part of the patient care team as directed by Nursing. The Patient Support volunteer provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for patients, families and visitors.

The Department of Volunteer Services gives general orientation including Safety, Infection Control, Patients' Rights, HIPAA and other important information. Nursing staff provides orientation to patient care and on-the-job instruction.

While on duty, the Patient Support volunteer is required to wear a volunteer vest provided by the Department of Volunteer Services.

Duties:

Makes continuous patient rounds on assigned units.

Welcomes patients following their admission and assists in obtaining supplies (i.e. blankets, pillows, phone and TV hook up).

Visit with patients and their families, offering conversation and emotional support.

Dispenses water to patients and assist with meals, with supervising nurse's guidance and approval.

Provides information regarding visiting hours, food service and Chaplaincy services.

Distributes amenities, as requested and appropriate, including daily newspapers, magazines, books, games, etc.

Reads with patients upon request.

Walks with patients, with supervising nurse's guidance and approval.

Assists patient to make phone calls.

Communicates concerns to Patient Representative, Nurse Manager and other staff, as appropriate.

Works cooperatively with all employees on unit to ensure patients are cared for courteously and promptly. Such responsibilities may include assisting staff from time to time with non-medical tasks.

Maintains established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality improvement program, safety, and infection control standards. Promotes adherence to Patients' Bill of Rights.

Assimilates core values - compassion, respect, ethics, excellence and dedication - throughout all processes.

Communicates effectively and efficiently with patient, family, staff and other members of the health care team.

Maintains confidentiality.

Reports to duty as scheduled and on time.

Adheres to Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center dress code for volunteers.