Surgical and Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (SNICU) Volunteer

Unit Description

Volunteers in this unit will do many tasks depending on what is needed at the time. Volunteers will help nurses transport and maneuver patients. Volunteers also might get to see minor procedures. Volunteers also help the nursing assistants restock the nurses' stations and linen supplies.

The activity level in the SNICU tends to change a lot from day to day. This means that during times of low activity, volunteers must be able to be self-motivating and strive to find productive things to do. At other times, the unit may be amazingly busy and volunteers will have no trouble finding many activities to keep them busy. Volunteers need to be outgoing and assertive to volunteer in this unit so that they can find out what they can help with.

Training

All college student volunteers are required to attend large and small group orientation. During small group orientation, students will meet the unit's nursing director and receive a unit tour. Volunteers will also receive a training session from a nursing assistant. This allows volunteers to become familiar with the unit and their duties.

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

Students are welcome to volunteer between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., any day of the week. Volunteers will sign up for a weekly time slot. College student volunteers are expected to devote at least three hours of service per week to the hospital, for a total of 36 hours per semester.

Areas of Study Best Suited

The SNICU is an amazing learning and volunteer experience for anyone interested in the health-care field. Being able to experience patient care in this setting is an opportunity that will develop volunteers as students and caregivers. The SNICU is especially great for volunteers with an interest in surgical procedures and hospital care. However, volunteers from all fields of study are welcomed.