title: Training and supporting hospice volunteers: a regional survey.
abstract: We surveyed volunteers from 8 hospices in the Delaware Valley regarding training, perceived needs, and role satisfaction. Results were consistent with previous studies: satisfaction with preservice training and with volunteering was very high; respondents reported feeling very prepared and confident about doing hospice work as a result of their volunteer training. In addition, longer volunteer preservice training was associated with higher levels of overall satisfaction with training; levels of volunteer satisfaction and fulfillment tended to be lower during the first year of volunteering; and participation in volunteer support teams was associated with finding volunteer work rewarding and with feeling a part of the hospice team. Implications for preservice training and ongoing support and education of hospice volunteers are discussed.
authors: Department of Health Services, Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA.
authors: Philip
authors: P
authors: Lavenburg
authors: Frank M
authors: FM
authors: Bernt
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003691:Delaware; D005260:Female; D017051:Hospice Care / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014838:Volunteers / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology*