ABOUT EDLSV
The Emory Decatur Labor Support Volunteers (EDLSV) program was created as a partnership between Emory Decatur Hospital Volunteer Services and Emory Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, with support from Georgia ACNM Affiliate. Since its inception in early 2019, the program has expanded to other local schools, including Georgia State University, Agnes Scott College and Spelman College, and also accepts students from other disciplines.
Our volunteers are hospital-based and provide services to patients who are on the Labor and Delivery unit. Volunteers remain in the hospital during their shifts, and work with laboring patients as assigned by the unit charge. The unit charge identifies patients who can benefit from having a labor support volunteer, and facilitates a partnership between the volunteer, patient, and nurse.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Purpose:
The Emory Decatur Labor Support Volunteer (EDLSV) Program aims to enhance the birthing experience for laboring parents by utilizing the support of trained volunteers, often referred to as "doulas." This program is designed to contribute to reduced rates of cesarean sections, Pitocin usage, and epidurals, while promoting shorter labors and higher patient satisfaction. This non-clinical and entirely voluntary initiative aims to maximize positive outcomes for laboring parents, support labor and delivery personnel, and provide valuable experiential learning opportunities for nursing and other interested students.
Key Benefits:
-
Enhanced Patient Outcomes: Studies show that the use of labor support is associated with improved birthing experiences, including reduced medical interventions and increased patient satisfaction.
-
Educational Opportunities: The program offers a unique chance for nursing and other health science students to gain hands-on experience in labor support while observing licensed caregivers in action.
-
Voluntary Participation: Both volunteers and patients have the option to participate voluntarily, ensuring a supportive and consent-driven environment.
