What has everyone else's volunteering experience been like?

Question

I just started volunteering in the emergency room of a hospital to gain experience in the medical field. So far I hate volunteering. On my first day the lady told me to stand behind the desk and observe how the ER works. So I did that. The second day I walked around with a nurse and helped her out with small tasks (like holding things for her, or helping her make some beds). Today I was all by myself and I had no idea what to do. No one ever told me that I'm supposed to do this this and this when I come in, or just what tasks I should be doing as a volunteer. Yes I asked questions (they told me that there wasn't anything I should be doing when I come in), but that doesn't seem right. Today I came in I walked around to check the beds to see if any of them needed cleaning. I had already added supplies to the supply cart so it was already full. I asked the nurses if they needed anything (and they said no) so I literally stood for about 2 hours with nothing to do. Am I missing something?

Answer 1

Hi,

Sorryn your ER time isn't going smoother for you. I too volunteered in the ER as a teen and I am an RN now. I remember feeling underutilized too. I changed linens between patients and ran specimens to the lab.You can also sit with elderly patients or scared young kids. ER staff is used to being self sufficient so I'm not surprised they aren't asking you do do more. Keeping the carts stocked is very helpful as is sitting with pts, or reading consent forms to people. You might ask if you can help transport patients to tests also. The more they get to know you the more they will let you do. When they do need you, they will be glad you are available.

Answer 2

I don't think you're missing anything. It sounds like the hospital is not prepared for volunteers. I was a candy striper in my teens and I was ALWAYS busy and knew exactly what was expected of me when I came in for my shift.

Who is the volunteer coordinator? There must be someone you talked to to get the "job." Talk to them about your concerns. some places just aren't set up for volunteers even though they say they want them.

You might have to go somewhere else.

Answer 3

i find that volunteering makes me feel good all over. Its a rewarding expirence emotionally and physical.

Answer 4

u know at first it feels hard and everything but then its fun and when u finish it feels good,

Answer 5

sorry  ...i guess it's just them go see what the other volunteers are doing(if there are any) but I'm volunteering at the post office and it's really fun i go there today we had a broom fight yesterday we made our friend fall out of his chair and and other days we were messing with people that opened there mail boxes(because they can see us) once we yelled you have no mail go away and then she opened it we also have rubber band fights(they hurt but oh well) and we go out to lunch where ever we want and we can cus all the time and no one cares(we always burn each other with them) Lil we slack off alot too

Answer 6

Doesn't sound  like a good volunteer situation.  Maybe you can find a different position somewhere else where your contribution is meaningful and valued?

Answer 7

That is what happens when you volunteer, the last time I volunteered for something it cost me 6 years of my life, I joined the United States Marines, it was not all bad, but it taught me never to volunteer for anything again.