Get Involved: Health and Wellness - Surgical Family Waiting Liaison
Surgical Family Waiting Liaison
- Description:
Surgical Family Liaisons support families and loved ones while a patient is in surgery. You'll serve as a link between the surgical team and waiting families, sharing status updates and offering comfort during an anxious time.
- Key Responsibilities & Activities:
- Check in families and record contact information for updates
- Relay patient status updates from the surgical tracking system
- Notify families when the surgeon is ready to meet with them
- Answer general questions and direct families to amenities
- Keep the waiting area clean, comfortable, and stocked
- Time Commitment:
One 4 hour shift per week for a minimum of 6 months. Early morning availability is especially valuable.
- Impact:
Families waiting on news of a loved one often feel helpless. Timely updates and a caring presence ease that burden and strengthen trust in the care team.
- Requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Completed volunteer application and interview
- CORI background check
- Health screening, including TB test and required immunizations
- HIPAA and patient privacy training
- General volunteer orientation plus role-specific surgical waiting training
- Comfortable using a computer and basic tracking software
- Strong communication skills and emotional composure in sensitive situations
- Volunteer Benefits:
- Gain firsthand exposure to perioperative operations, ideal for those exploring healthcare careers
- Develop compassionate communication and active listening skills
- Receive specialized training in patient privacy and family support
- Work closely with nursing and surgical staff