Comforting a family as they await the outcome of a relative's surgery is a rewarding and emotionally demanding job. Volunteers provide company, scheduling information from the Operating Suite and a cup of coffee. They communicate directly with volunteers in the Operating Suite, P.A.C.U., and the Ambulatory Surgery Suite as well as facilitate meetings between the family and the surgeon. Volunteers must have considerable experience working with people who are under a great deal of stress. Volunteers assist with the art therapy program under the direction of the Oncology Clinician Specialist.
Volunteers provide comfort, and compassion and companionship to patients receiving infusion.
Volunteers also offer refreshments to patients and assist nursing staff with numerous simple tasks. Volunteers greet and assist patients to the Cancer Center by providing direction, information, and physical assistance, if necessary. It is vital that these volunteers be able to push a wheelchair, and provide comfort and compassion while maintaining patient confidentiality. In addition, the volunteer will dispatch an Oncology Escort volunteer to assist the patient, if necessary, to and from the Cancer Center. This volunteer must be friendly, organized, and be capable of identifying and responding to patient needs.