Claire Truax, RN, started working in the Salem Hospital Emergency Department three years ago.

“When I moved to Salem, I really wanted to volunteer, but I waited to get more experience,” she said. “I eventually made it happen and I’m so happy that I did.”

Truax started volunteering at Salem Free Clinics in late 2024.

“I wanted to use my nursing skills in a way that I felt was helpful in the community,” she said.

During her volunteer shifts, Truax talks with patients about their backstory, takes vitals and assists the provider in making orders or referrals. The ED nurse said this gives her an idea of what it’s like to work in primary care.

Meeting patients before they need the emergency department

“It’s a lot less stress than my normal work shifts,” said Truax. “It’s very refreshing.”

Truax said she’s amazed by all the ways Salem Free Clinics can help the community. This includes mental health, wound care and dental services.

“I feel like this is an underutilized tool, it’s often a surprise to the patients that everything is free, and they didn’t realize it was a resource for them,” Truax said.

The nurse said the clinic setting gives her a fresh, hopeful understanding of her work in the emergency department.

“I love my job where I have a critical role in an emergency setting, but it’s nice to see patients on the other side seeking out primary care and follow up care, which is so crucial in public health, and likely will decrease the likelihood down the road that they end up in the emergency department,” said Truax.

Truax said it’s a joy to volunteer at Salem Free Clinics, and she’s able to learn from experienced colleagues along the way.

“It’s a fun connection point with other Salem Health employees,” she said. “I’ve met nurses who used to work in the emergency department. They’re still using their expertise years later.”

How to volunteer

From providers to RNs, LPNs and CMAS — Salem Free Clinics is always looking for volunteers. Click here to learn more.