What is a candy striper?

What is a Candy Striper?

The term "candy striper" may evoke images of a sweet, colorful treat, but in reality, it refers to a type of volunteer nurse’s aide or auxiliary worker in hospitals and healthcare facilities. In this article, we’ll delve into the history, responsibilities, and significance of candy stripers, exploring what makes them an essential part of the healthcare team.

History of Candy Stripers

The origins of the term "candy striper" date back to the early 20th century, when volunteer nurses’ aides began wearing red and white striped uniforms to distinguish themselves from paid hospital staff. The red and white stripes, reminiscent of candy canes, became a hallmark of these dedicated volunteers.

Responsibilities of a Candy Striper

Candy stripers, also known as volunteer nurses’ aides or auxiliary workers, play a vital role in supporting hospital staff and patients. Their responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with patient care: Candy stripers help with daily tasks such as feeding, bathing, and dressing patients, as well as taking vital signs and reporting changes to nursing staff.
• Providing emotional support: They offer companionship, comfort, and emotional support to patients, often becoming a trusted friend or confidant.
• Performing administrative tasks: Candy stripers may help with tasks such as answering phones, filing papers, and distributing mail.
• Participating in hospital events: They often participate in hospital events, such as fundraising activities, health fairs, and community outreach programs.

Benefits of Being a Candy Striper

So, why do people choose to become candy stripers? Here are some benefits:

• Gain work experience: Candy stripers can gain valuable work experience and skills in the healthcare industry, which can be beneficial for future career advancement.
• Make a difference: By providing support and care to patients, candy stripers can make a positive impact on their lives.
• Network and build relationships: Candy stripers have the opportunity to build relationships with healthcare professionals, patients, and other volunteers, expanding their professional and personal networks.
• Personal growth and development: The experience can foster personal growth, confidence, and empathy.

Types of Candy Stripers

While the term "candy striper" is often associated with volunteer nurses’ aides, there are other types of healthcare workers who share similar roles and responsibilities:

• Nursing assistants: Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) or certified patient care assistants (CPCAs) work under the supervision of licensed nurses, performing tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), and reporting changes to nursing staff.
• Healthcare volunteers: Volunteers in healthcare settings may assist with tasks such as escorting patients, delivering flowers or balloons, or providing emotional support.

Candy Striper Programs

Many hospitals and healthcare facilities have established candy striper programs, which often include:

• Volunteer orientation: Prospective candy stripers attend an orientation session to learn about hospital policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Training and education: Candy stripers receive training on patient care, infection control, and other essential topics.
• Supervision and support: They are supervised by licensed nurses and other healthcare professionals, who provide guidance and support as needed.

Candy Striper Statistics

Here are some interesting statistics about candy stripers:

• Number of candy stripers: According to the American Hospital Association (AHA), there are over 1 million hospital volunteers in the United States, with many of these volunteers serving as candy stripers.
• Time commitment: Candy stripers typically commit to volunteering for a minimum of 1-2 hours per week, although some may choose to volunteer more frequently.
• Age range: Candy stripers can range in age from teenagers to seniors, with many people choosing to volunteer in this role as a way to give back to their community or gain work experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, candy stripers are an essential part of the healthcare team, providing support, care, and companionship to patients and hospital staff. By understanding the history, responsibilities, and benefits of being a candy striper, we can appreciate the vital role these dedicated volunteers play in the healthcare system.

Table: Candy Striper Responsibilities

Table: Benefits of Being a Candy Striper

I hope this article provides a comprehensive overview of what a candy striper is and the important role they play in the healthcare system.