We have volunteers in our ICU waiting room, but not in the unit itself.  They communicate with family members/visitors re: visiting hours & rest periods; provide coffee for those in the waiting room; serve as the liaison between families & various staff people such as patient advocates & chaplains; insure "new" families have received a copy of the informational brochure that's given to all of our critical care families; and often they just talk with folks and make sure they know someone is there for them. 

We have volunteers in the CCU at the Nsg Stn working side by side with the Multi Skilled Tech.  Previously had volunteers in the waiting area (a very large area with living room decor & large flat screen TV). Those in the waiting area were very spiritually based volunteers providing comfort to families; serving as a liaison for the staff.  A local church donated snacks in a large basket (ie: pre packaged crackers/ch).  Coffee, tea and hot chocolate always readily available at no cost.  Vending machines and small cafe seating area. Magazine rack kept by volunteers.  Found this to be a very difficult area to keep staffed.