What is a candy striper?

Candy striper, or candy striper nurse, is the common name for a volunteer who assists hospital staff by performing nonmedical tasks. The name derives from the red-and-white striped uniforms that these individuals wear.

History:

The candy striper program traces its origins back to the 1870s, when the New England Hospital for Women and Children in Boston began using young girls as hospital volunteers. These volunteers were called "junior aids," and they wore white uniforms with red stripes on the sleeves.

The candy striper program spread to other hospitals throughout the United States in the early 20th century, and it became a popular way for young people to get involved in healthcare, often during the summer break from school.

Candy Stripers Today:

While candy stripers are still present in some hospitals, their numbers have declined in recent decades due to the rise of professional healthcare workers and the increasing complexity of medical procedures.

However, candy stripters can still be found in many hospitals and clinics, where they provide a range of services, such as:

* Assisting patients with tasks like reading, feeding, and walking.

* Providing companionship to patients who are lonely or isolated.

* Helping to keep hospital rooms and waiting areas tidy and clean.

* Answering questions from patients and visitors.

* Running errands for hospital staff.

Candy stripers are usually high school students, though they can also be older adults or college students. They typically volunteer their time for a few hours each week, and may receive a small stipend or reimbursement for expenses.

Candy stripers play an important role in hospitals by providing support to patients and staff. They help to create a welcoming and compassionate environment for patients, and they can provide valuable assistance to hospital staff.