Unit Description
The orthopedics clinics are a large and busy set of units with rotating daily focus–from scoliosis to club foot and more. This dynamic schedule provides volunteers with the opportunity to have a different experience each day. Tasks for volunteers include getting exam rooms ready between patient exams, helping out in the cast room (warning: not for the faint of heart), visiting with patients, completing paper projects, and helping staff with various errands and tasks. Volunteers should be self-motivated and are expected to be highly autonomous.
Training
All volunteers will attend large group orientation where they will receive general University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics volunteer information. Orthopedic volunteers will also attend a small group orientation where they will receive a general overview and tour of the orthopedics clinics. Lastly, volunteers will receive training from a volunteer mentor during a mentor shift. If a mentor is not available, volunteers may instead shadow a staff member during in lieu of a mentor shift.
Uniform
The dress code for this unit is a dress shirt or 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 Orthopedics Clinics are open to volunteers Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Areas of Study Best Suited
This unit would be a great fit for anyone pursuing a career in health care, though pre-physical therapy students may be especially interested.