A new volunteer program at North Hawai’i Community Hospital offers extra comfort to patients. “The Comfort Rounding program focuses on offering extra little things that can sometimes get forgotten in a hospital,” said Volunteer Coordinator and Fund Development Manager Julia Ramos. “These extra niceties, such as reading to a patient or helping find a favorite TV channel, can make a big difference for our patients.”
The volunteers receive special training from the hospital’s clinical educator so they feel comfortable interacting with patients. Hospital staff is also trained so they understand the scope of the volunteers’ duties.
Other activities that volunteers can help with during comfort rounds include moving personal items closer to the patient, providing extra pillows and blankets, providing magazine and activity books, responding to call lights, assistance with ordering meals, and offering oshibori (hot towels and aromatherapy).
Volunteers of all ages are needed and no special skills are required. The only qualification required is a desire to help others.
To learn more about volunteering at North Hawai’i Community Hospital, please visit www.nhch.com/Careers (at top)/Volunteer (on left) or call Julia Ramos at 881-4420.
