Hospice volunteer orientation
Apply to be a hospice volunteerUnlike other types of volunteering, working with people in hospice requires a thorough understanding of certain end-of-life issues. Aurora Health Care’s volunteer orientation process helps you learn about these concerns while preparing you to help our patients.
The hospice volunteer orientation process
At Aurora, your hospice volunteer orientation begins with online learning modules or textbook instruction that you complete at your own pace. On average, the learning modules take about 10 hours to complete. If online learning modules are difficult to use, volunteer coordinators may suggest alternative education options.
Because of the issues facing people at the end of life, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services require all hospice volunteers to become familiar with several subjects, including:
- Confidentiality, HIPAA and patient rights
- Death, dying and grief basics
- Hospice goals, philosophy, mission and services
- Hospice staffing and resources
- Procedures to follow in case of emergency
- Volunteer duties and responsibilities
Each online learning module has a few test questions following the content. Volunteers may repeat all test questions as often as needed to achieve a passing score.
In-person volunteer training
People volunteering at Aurora Zilber Family Hospice also complete about five hours of in-person hospice training. During this training, volunteers learn about topics not covered in the online modules.
Two-hour orientation
During this two-hour orientation, we familiarize you with our hospice facility, the medical staff and your duties as a volunteer. You’ll learn where to find certain items, like snacks, water, toothettes and other small items, how to set up a bedside table, and other tasks we may ask you to perform. We also help you understand how to quickly contact members of patients’ medical team if necessary.
After orientation
Following orientation for Aurora Zilber Family Hospice, volunteers work with more experienced volunteers who participate in and mentor you through your first visits with patients. Your volunteer coordinator schedules this opportunity.
For volunteers traveling to hospice patients’ homes, another more experienced volunteer will go with you on your first visit. The other volunteer will introduce you to the patient, familiarize you with the home, and answer any questions you may have.
Keep in mind that no portion of the volunteering process requires you to provide any type of medical care, including feeding or toileting, to people in hospice. Medical professionals provide these services, and these skills will not be taught during orientation.
Aurora hospice volunteers are never on their own
You may be concerned about volunteering with people at the end of their lives. We understand your concern. Each and every time you volunteer, you are fully supported by Aurora’s medical staff and volunteer coordinators.
All people participating in the hospice volunteer program have the opportunity to shadow experienced volunteers. If you choose to work with people in home hospice, you’ll travel with another volunteer to see what a home visit is like. Volunteers in Aurora’s hospice facility may also shadow experienced volunteers throughout the orientation process.
Whether you volunteer at Zilber Family Hospice or in a patient’s home, medical professionals provide any medical care that is needed.
Have questions about volunteering for hospice?
Get quick answers to your questions about hospice volunteer opportunities and application requirements from our informative FAQ about hospice volunteering.
Contact our volunteer coordinators with any questions about volunteering for hospice that aren’t addressed in our FAQ.