I recently began volunteering for my local hospital in the medical surgical units. I began this volunteer position because I want to improve my interpersonal skills when talking with patients, give back to my community and to become comfortable within the hospital setting (I've only finished my first year of nursing and have no clinical experience yet).
As part of my volunteer responsibilities I go around the medical surgical unit and check in on patients to see if they need anything whether it be someone to talk to, a cup of tea (if allowed) or toiletries. So far I have only had my orientation with an experienced volunteer and I have yet to go around the units by myself.
This is where you guys come in. I am looking for ice breaking tips for when I have to enter patient rooms. The truth is that I am nervous about walking into someone's room after they have been acutely ill. I realize some patients wont want to talk, while others will. So what are some things you guys say or do to make a patient want to open up and talk with you? I am there to help make their hospital stay more positive and provide company for those who may have no visitors and are feeling alienated and alone.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post any input will be helpful.
