A parish nurse is a registered nurse who, as a member of a ministerial team in a congregation, provides holistic nursing services to the members of the community. Parish nurses promote wellness by addressing the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the members they serve.
The goal of the parish nurse is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the congregation encountered:
As an Educator - The parish nurse is a resource on current, accurate information on health and disease. Educational programs and screenings are offered to increase one’s awareness of health.
As a Counselor - The parish nurse brings the healing ministry of the church, along with the nursing expertise, to members and their families.
As a Referral Agent - The parish nurse acts as a case manager, referring clients to appropriate resources. This results in earlier intervention and improved access to health care.
As an Advocate - The parish nurse functions as a developer of support services and advocates for the needs of the underserved and unserved members of the community.
As a Volunteer Coordinator - The parish nurse draws on the special gifts of the members of the congregation who desire to utilize their talents in promoting health as a vital role in the healing ministry.