Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Volunteer

Unit Description

Volunteers in the Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) work closely with the nursing staff, assisting with duties such as patient transport, patient positioning, patient dressing, providing company to patients after surgery, comforting children before and after surgery, and transporting lab specimens. Other duties may include filing and chart return and retrieval.

The ASC is a fast-paced surgical care unit with high patient interaction, so volunteers in this unit must be self-directed, able to work independently, and possess strong communication skills. Most importantly, all volunteers are expected to respect the confidentiality of patients. Doctor shadowing opportunities to observe surgeries will be offered to consistent and reliable volunteers.

Training

All prospective ASC volunteers will attend large group orientation, where they will receive general University of Iowa Health Care information. Volunteers will also attend small group orientation, where they will receive training and information specific to the ASC and a brief tour of the UI Hospitals and Clinics. Volunteers will receive training from the nursing staff and, if needed, further guidance from a volunteer mentor (more information about the mentor program will be provided during orientation).

Uniform

The dress code for this unit is a Volunteer Services polo, khaki pants, and closed-toe shoes. Shirts are available for purchase at Wild Rose Gifts (Main Entrance Lobby) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Volunteers must follow the professional appearance policy, which includes wearing the volunteer badge at all times.

Hours Available

The ASC is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Three volunteer hours (not necessarily consecutive) per week are required, and all should be completed in the ASC.

Areas of Study Best Suited

This unit is a great fit for students in pre-medicine, pre-nursing, pre-physical therapy, pre-dentistry, and anyone with a strong interest in health care.