Hospice Volunteer Massage Therapist

Title: Hospice Volunteer Massage Therapist

Overview: As a Hospice Volunteer Massage Therapist, you have the unique opportunity to provide comfort, solace, and relief to individuals navigating their end-of-life journey. Your role is deeply compassionate and requires both skill and empathy as you offer gentle touch and soothing massage techniques to alleviate physical discomfort and promote emotional well-being.

Compassionate Presence: Be a compassionate presence for hospice patients and their families, offering support and empathy as they navigate the challenges of end-of-life care.

Assessment and Communication: Conduct thorough assessments of patients' physical and emotional needs before each session. Communicate effectively with the hospice care team to ensure a holistic approach to patient care.

Customized Massage Therapy: Provide individualized massage therapy sessions tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each patient. Utilize a variety of techniques, including gentle touch, Swedish massage, and aromatherapy, to promote relaxation, alleviate pain, and enhance overall comfort.

Pain Management: Employ specialized massage techniques to help manage pain and discomfort associated with terminal illness. Work closely with patients and their care team to develop personalized pain management plans.

Emotional Support: Offer emotional support and companionship to patients during massage sessions, creating a safe and nurturing environment for them to express their feelings and concerns.

Respect for Boundaries: Respect patients' physical and emotional boundaries at all times, ensuring that they feel safe and comfortable throughout the massage therapy session.

Documentation: Maintain accurate and confidential documentation of each massage therapy session, including patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes, in accordance with hospice policies and procedures.

Continued Education: Stay informed about advancements in massage therapy techniques, pain management strategies, and end-of-life care practices through ongoing education and training opportunities.

Qualifications

Certification: Hold a valid certification in massage therapy from an accredited institution.

Experience: Have experience providing massage therapy services, preferably in a healthcare or hospice setting.

Empathy and Compassion: Possess exceptional empathy, compassion, and sensitivity to the needs of hospice patients and their families.

Communication Skills: Demonstrate strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with patients, families, and interdisciplinary care team members.

Professionalism: Maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity in all interactions, adhering to ethical standards and confidentiality guidelines.

Physical Stamina: Have the physical stamina and strength required to perform massage therapy techniques for extended periods.

Team Player: Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary hospice care team, collaborating with colleagues to provide comprehensive care to patients.

Conclusion: As a Hospice Volunteer Massage Therapist, you have the profound opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing the end of life. Your compassionate presence, therapeutic touch, and unwavering support bring comfort and relief to patients and their families during a challenging and sacred time.

Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 505-259-2067 for more information

• a background check, Tuberculosis Testing (TB), and Opportunity specific training are required for this role, as it is in direct contact with patients and families, and they are provided by Corus Health.