Neuroscience Intermediate Inpatient Unit Volunteer
Unit Description
The main goals of volunteers in the Neuroscience Intermediate Inpatient Unit are to assist staff with functional and patient support. Some typical volunteer duties in this unit include visiting with patients, assisting the nursing staff with patient bathing, escorting patients to different areas of the unit and hospital, unit deliveries, clerical work, and cleaning.
Potential volunteers should be comfortable with having a large amount of patient interaction through out their volunteer shift. Also, volunteers are expected to be self-motivated as this unit may become very busy at times, especially when patients are being admitted to the unit. Responsibility is paramount for potential volunteers as he/she will be exposed to confidential patient information. There are opportunities to shadow the nursing staff, EEG technicians, neurologists, and neurosurgeons.
Training
All prospective volunteers will attend large group orientation, where they will receive general University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics information. Volunteers will also attend small group orientation, where they will receive training and information specific to the Neurology Unit and a brief tour of the area. 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 Neurology Unit is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Three volunteer hours per week are required, and all should be completed in the Neurology Unit. Volunteers may choose to have two 1.5-hour shift or one 3-hour shift during the week.
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, especially in the neurology field.