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Infusion Food Services Volunteer

POSITION SUMMARY
Volunteers in this position will assist infusion patients by getting and heating (if necessary) food items as chosen by the patient from a nourishment center menu (inventory list).

RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Provide assistance to patients that request help with transporting or heating food items.
  2. Keep nourishment center area clean.
  3. Place food safety labels on all appropriate food stock.
  4. Strictly follow infection control and hand hygiene practices.
  5. Strive to remain compassionate, non-judgmental, flexible and impartial when assisting people who have lifestyles, spiritual beliefs, and interests that are different from your own.
  6. Respect the privacy of patients and family members, and abide by the Volunteer Services program’s confidentiality policies.

SUPERVISION
The Manager of Volunteer Services and the Nutrition Services department will provide supervision to Infusion Food Service volunteers. On-going feedback and evaluation of the program will be requested.

TIME COMMITMENT
New volunteers must be able to commit a minimum of six months to the Volunteer Services program. Volunteers assist an average of one 3-hour shift per week.

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
Patients are extremely vulnerable to potentially life-threatening infections because their immune systems are suppressed from chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Because of this, all volunteers must abide by universal precautions and infectious disease guidelines in order to protect themselves and patients. These guidelines are listed in the Volunteer Manual.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Comfort with patient and caregiver interaction on an active nursing and treatment unit.
  • Successful completion and understanding of SCCA Food Safety Class and on-site nourishment center orientation.
  • Comfort using microwave.
  • Ability to read and follow instructions for heating meals.
  • Essential functions of this role are the ability to reach items on a shelf (approximately 5-6 feet from floor), a full sized refrigerator and a full sized freezer. Also, the ability to lift, carry and transport food items weighing up to 5 pounds.
  • Respect of diverse lifestyles, cultures, religions and values.
  • Ability to be flexible and respond to changing needs of patients and family members.
  • Ability to maintain emotional boundaries and lead a balanced life.
  • Ability to work as part of a team with other volunteers and staff.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Volunteer applicants are asked to complete disclosure forms for a national criminal background check. Annual tuberculosis testing and documentation for Chickenpox (Varicella), Measles, Mumps and Rubella are required for all volunteers who have contact with patients. In addition, volunteers between the ages of 19 and 64 are encouraged to receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

ORIENTATION
Volunteers participate in two orientation sessions and a role specific orientation, along with an interview, before they are assigned to a specific shift. Volunteers are encouraged to attend in-service education programs for continuing education.

BENEFITS TO THE VOLUNTEER

  • Opportunities to support families from around the world and diverse cultures.
  • An opportunity to gain experience in a multi-disciplinary health-care setting.