Introduction:
Hospitalised older adults often require complex care, presenting challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. Targeted volunteer programs have demonstrated benefits in areas like nutrition, fall prevention, and delirium management. However, there is limited evidence regarding the integration of a nurse-led volunteer support program into routine clinical practice. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of such program designed to address the individualised needs of older patients.

Methods:
Using a non-randomised quasi-experimental study design, this project explored the perspectives of clinical staff, hospital volunteers, and patients on implementing a person-centred volunteer support program in an acute medical ward of a private hospital in Western Australia. The program was guided by a nurse-led model focusing on fundamental principles of patient assessment and risk assessment by targeting key areas including orientation, sensory, mobility, nutritional, cognitive and well-being support. Data collection included post-implementation surveys with 55 patients, 23 clinical staff, and 11 volunteers, complemented by interviews with 15 participants to provide deeper insights.

Results:
Majority of the patients, volunteers and staff were satisfied with the program and acknowledged the program’s potential to improve patient care. However, there is a need for improved communication between clinical staff, patients, and volunteers. Concerns were also raised about the additional responsibilities placed on nursing staff to oversee volunteer activities and ensuring continuity in volunteer support.

Conclusion:
This study highlights the complexities of embedding nurse-led volunteer programs into clinical practice. While the model demonstrates significant benefits for patient care, addressing barriers such as communication and workload implications is critical. Future research should explore strategies to enhance nurse-volunteer collaboration and evaluate long-term impacts on nursing workload and patient outcomes, contributing to innovative, compassionate, and connected care for hospitalised older adults.