Advice?! Volunteering?!

[nurselife21]

Right now I am working on finishing up my pre-reqs for the nursing program. Just 4 more classes to go (microbiology, A&P 1&2, and Statistics) - which i am very nervous about taking soon.. and will hopefully apply to the nursing program at my community college by Fall 2014. Anyway I was thinking that I would like to get into volunteering in a hospital setting a few hours a week so I could eventually get a job there and once I finish the nursing program, I could possibly get a job as an ADN RN. But as of now i am 21 yrs old and have no experience in the medical field. My question is:

Where and how can I get information about volunteering at a hospital?

How do I apply?

What are the requirements?

I live in North Texas and would love some feedback pls!

Thank you!

[o0fefe0o]

Most hospitals have an application on their websites and you have to be current on your vaccines and have a TB test.

I'm currently volunteering at Texas Children's and I got a call literally a couple days after submitting my application. The turnaround on volunteers is usually pretty high, so you shouldn't have much trouble at all finding a spot. Good luck!

[RHill9919]

I currently volunteer in my local hospital which is through the American Red Cross. Sort of like a "candy striper".

[traumanurse2b?]

I volunteered at a local facility. Check out the website for the facility and see if you can find info on there or call the main line at the facility and ask them for the volunteer services office. We had to have a meeting with the coordinator, the TB tests, and attend a couple info sessions about policies and such. It was really a great experience for me!

[zoe92]

Like everyone said, look at different websites and search for their applications. Most do not have specific requirments education/experience wise, but want to make sure you have shots, etc. It is defintiely a good idea to volunteer though because it can help build you resume. It also speaks volumes about you, because someone who is in hard pre req classes yet takes the time to help others in an unpaid volunteer experience gives a very wholesome/dedicated impression.