What does a Faith Community/Parish Nurse do?
A Faith Community/Parish Nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who has had educational preparation in wholistic ministry and who provides special health promotion services within a given faith community. She/he assists individuals in gaining optimal mental, physical and spiritual health by complementing the ministry provided by the Pastor(s) and other lay ministers. Faith Community/Parish Nurses perform different services from church to church, based on the congregation’s needs. Some of the services/programs might include: • Screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, glaucoma and overall fitness • Classes for all age groups offered on health related issues (e.g., advance directives, nutrition, exercise, parenting, elderly parents care, stress management and CPR) • Hospital, nursing home and home visits for assessment of health care needs • Special prayer and healing services • Referrals to appropriate community resources • Health tips in newsletter, bulletin or informational boar
