Volunteer Handbook - Roper St. Francis Healthcare

Senior Volunteers:Advantage Membership: “Advantage” is an RSFH membership program for seniors 50 and older withmany benefits. The membership fee is waived for RSFH Volunteers. Call 724-2489 to register.RSVP: The initials RSVP stand for the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, an umbrella organizationthat welcomes retired volunteers over the age of 55. RSVP is sponsored locally by the CarolinaLowcountry American Red Cross and is supported by the United Way. RSVP members may only workat their chosen facility or may offer to be involved in other area events. Members are mailed a regularnewsletter and included in recognition special events. RSFH facilities have been successful stations forRSVP members for many years. Ask your coordinator for a membership form or for more informationcall RSVP offices at 764-2323 ext. 379.Keeping our Hospital Safe - A Culture of SafetyNational Patient Safety GoalsPatient safety is one of the most important challenges facing the American health care system andeveryone at Roper St. Francis Healthcare is needed to promote the "culture of safety" that is our goal.At all times: Consider your actions and how they may affect patient safety Stay alert for things that don't seem right Take appropriate steps to address a problemThe Joint Commission, which accredits hospitals, has published a list of patient safety goals that allhospitals must address. By wearing our nametag you are agreeing to join us as we do everything withinour power to help us protect our patient’s safety by meeting these goals. From board members andphysicians, clinical staff to volunteers as well as the patient and their loved ones, we each play a key rolein promoting a culture of safety. Review some of the Patient Safety goals below and think of waysvolunteers can help make the hospital a safer place.Improving the Accuracy of Patient Identification: Use at least two identifiers when providingcare such as helping to feed a patient or taking care of a newborn and mother.Improve the effectiveness of Communication among CaregiversVolunteers can help facilitate communication across the entire team. A volunteer can make agreat difference in a patient's outcome by letting others know about issues we see.Improve the Safety of Using MedicationsVolunteers are not involved in taking any orders or giving any medications at RSFH.Reduce the risk of health care associated infectionsThis means the use of hand hygiene by everyone in the hospital - including volunteers.Encourage the patient’s involvement in his or her own careSome volunteers work directly with patients. All of us can help assure that our patients and familymembers have the information they need and help them get their questions answered.Preventing Falls: Be aware of the “STOP – Call Don’t Fall” symbols noting patients on “fallprecautions”. Leave items within a patient’s reach on bedside tables. Encourage patients to callfor help. Notify housekeeping promptly about spills. Stay safe yourself!10