Lismore

The Day Surgery Unit (24 Hour, Endoscopy and Eyes Unit) at Lismore Base Hospital cares for patients directly before and immediately after they undergo surgery. As a Patient Companion volunteer in this area, you will offer comfort and emotional support during what can be an anxious time for patients and their loved ones.

You may welcome people in the waiting room and offer company while patients await their appointment. After the procedure, you will provide patients comfort in the recovery lounge including offering light refreshments, friendly conversation and assisting with personal needs such as communicating with loved ones.

 Patient Companion volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the experience of people undergoing day surgery at Lismore Base Hospital. This additional support encourages a calm environment and relieves pressure from nursing staff, allowing them to deliver the best possible medical care.

Duty Statement:

• Liaise with the Nurse Unit Manager upon arrival and completion of shift.
• Liaise with Nurse Unit Manager during shift for direction, as needed.

• Spend time with patients:
• Spend time with patients
  • Gather blankets, towels and pillows to ensure patients are comfortable.
  • Serve light refreshments and prepare cups of tea, coffee and water as directed by nursing staff.
  • Reassure anxious and nervous patients.
  • Listen to patient stories and respond with empathy and non-judgement.
  • Help patients arrange transport and communicate with their support person.
  • Assist patients getting ready for departure from the ward including assisting to access clothing and other personal belongings.
• Staff support
  • Assist with mealtime by helping open food packets and having the meal trays ready to be cleared.
  • Assist staff to compile patient information packs and other administrative tasks.
  • Help staff keep areas clean and tidy.
  • Refer patient and visitor enquiries to staff such as calling for assistance with wheelchairs