Hospital volunteering?

Question

I have been thinking about volunteering at a hospital, most likely with children. Can someone tell me what it's like to volunteer in a hospital, especially with the pediatic unit?

Thanks :)

Answer 1

it is sad is what it is, but if you stick with it you will feel great about it. Try the burn ward or the cancer ward....What is most sad is that oftentimes the parents of the kids dont even show up for the kids, maybe more sick than sad

Answer 2

It is very interesting plus you will get some experience of how the routine of parents is.

Answer 3

I volunteered at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh on the cancer unit.  I LOVED it!!  My assignment was in the Child Life Department.  Basically, I would find out which kids were healthy enough to go to the playroom, transport them there (sometimes they are in wheelchairs), and just play with them in the playroom.  Also, there were some kids who needed to remain in their rooms or beds (too ill, post bone marrow transplant, etc).  With those kids, I would stay in their rooms with them and talk, play, read, watch tv etc.  

Sometimes I would just hold the babies or the little ones.  There was a two year old boy with leukemia there, and his family had basically stopped coming to see him.  He always just wanted to be held and cuddled.

It can be very sad, but is very rewarding.  Without a doubt, one of the best things I have ever done.  Good luck to you!

Answer 4

although i haven't reached this point yet, i believe that it is very rewarding. i plan on doing the same thing, but with cardiovascular and neurosurgeons. the only thing i can say is purchase books at Barnes and Nobles.  but it is a life changing experience, in my opinion.