The weekly 'Tuck-In' call volunteer supports the Bristol Hospice team and our patients by reaching out to our patients and/or their caregivers to ensure they have the supplies and support they need going into the weekend. By making these regular, scheduled phone calls, volunteers help assess patient and family needs, address any immediate concerns, provide emotional support and help mitigate potential issues that may arise over the weekend using a proactive approach.
Key Responsibilities:
- Weekly Phone Calls: Contact hospice patients or their caregivers on a scheduled day to "tuck in" the patient for the week by checking on their supply and comfort needs.
- Assess Needs: Inquire about the patient's medication, medical supplies, and personal care items to ensure they have everything necessary for the upcoming weekend.
- Communicate with the Hospice Team: Report any concerns, supply requests, or changes in the patient's condition to the hospice care team for prompt action.
- Offer Emotional Support: Provide a listening ear and words of comfort to patients and their families, ensuring they feel heard and supported.
- Documentation: Accurately record and report the outcomes of the calls, including any additional follow-up needed by the clinical team.
- Confidentiality: Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality in line with hospice policies and HIPAA guidelines.
Qualifications
- Empathy and Compassion: A caring and compassionate demeanor, able to provide emotional support over the phone.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal communication and active listening skills.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to document and relay information accurately.
- Dependability: Commitment to making weekly calls on a regular schedule and completing all assigned tasks.
- Training: Must complete hospice volunteer training, including understanding the hospice philosophy, end-of-life care, and patient confidentiality.
Time Commitment
- Weekly calls (typically 1-2 hours per week).
- Flexible schedule with a preference for regular consistency.
Benefits
- Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of hospice patients and their families.
- Develop communication and interpersonal skills.
- Experience working with a dedicated hospice care team.
- Personal fulfillment through community service.
This role is ideal for volunteers who want to help in an office setting, but still want to provide essential emotional and practical support to hospice patients and their caregivers.
