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Essay On Hospital Volunteering

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Volunteering in the medical/surgical department at Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center (PWFMC) was a rewarding and valuable experience. While volunteering, I had the opportunity to aid hospital staff in any way possible, which usually meant performing the more menial tasks that needed to be done. A few examples include stripping linens, cleaning rooms, and restocking nurse’s cabinets. Performing this type of work was gratifying for several reasons. Firstly, completing these tasks allows nurses and other staff to attend to more important duties, such as attending to patients. Lastly, it provides nurses and other staff the opportunity to take a break, if need be, during their exhausting shifts. Besides aiding hospital staff, I had the chance to regularly interact with and help patients. …show more content…

Still, more often than not, patients simply wanted someone to talk with to make the time pass in a more personable and enjoyable way. After all, most patients did not choose to be in the hospital and are generally, to some extent, afraid. They are scared because their wellbeing and happiness is at stake, and they may not fully understand their ailments; as physicians do with years of training and experience. Beyond being advised about their condition and treatment options, patients simply want to know that you sincerely care about their wellness and that they are not simply “patient #13” for the day. The most important thing I learned is that physicians need to exercise sympathy, empathy, and compassion when interacting with patients. Furthermore, I learned I possess the qualities and personality to do so if I become a

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