Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Volunteer
Unit Description
Volunteers in this unit will work with nursing, Child Life, and Ronald McDonald House staff to assist with a variety of activities. Duties in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) include toy cleaning, bringing patients to the playroom, stocking Ronald McDonald House pantries, and assisting families on the unit.
The PICU is best suited for dependable, outgoing volunteers who are comfortable with pediatric patients. Volunteers must possess good communication skills and be able to work independently
Training
All prospective PICU volunteers will attend large group orientation where they will receive general University of Iowa Health Care information. Volunteers will then attend small group orientation, where they will receive unit-specific information and training as well as a tour of the area. After the small group orientation, volunteers shadow an experienced volunteer mentor or staff member. This is helpful because it gives the volunteer a better understanding of how to react and apply what has been learned through the training sessions.
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
Shifts are available on weekdays. Volunteers will be expected to spend at least three hours per week on the unit.
Areas of Study Best Suited
Child life, social work, nursing, rehabilitation therapies, pre-medicine, physical therapy, pre-physician assistant, elementary education, or anyone who is interested in working with children.