Study at Chilliwack hospital highlights role of peer support workers in drug crisis

CHILLIWACK — Fraser Health is marking 10 years of the B.C. drug crisis by shining a light on those who work through people’s darkest moments.

A published study in the Canadian Journal of Emergency Nursing has revealed that peer support workers have been a positive force on both patient care and staff morale at the Chilliwack General Hospital.

“The peer support program has exceeded expectations,” said Janelle Tarnow, study lead author and nurse educator. “The peers are an integral part of the Chilliwack Hospital family. They’re helping patients feel safe, seen and cared for, and they’re supporting staff which results in better patient care.”

Eighty per cent of patients said they feel safer and more supported with peer workers present, while E.R. nurses noted that the peers help them focus more on their clinical duties by taking on the responsibilities of one-on-one patient support and connections to community resources, including witnessing drug use outside the hospital.