What Does a Parish Nurse Do?

Health Counselor / Educator

• Screenings for various health issues
• Sponsors flu and pneumonia vaccine clinics
• Private consultation or group education on health issues
• Educational articles on health in the church bulletin or newsletter

Referral and Advocacy

• Assists in plan of care with appropriate staff following discharge from hospital or nursing home
• Contacts primary care physician as needed
• Contacts appropriate community resources and makes referrals as indicated
• Interacts with family members as needed in plan of care
• Makes routine visits to hospitals, nursing homes and homes to monitor individuals and their needs

Teacher of Volunteers and Support Groups

• Coordinates volunteers from congregation to assist with programs or help other members in need
• Conducts support groups to assist members in issues such as grief and caregiving

Healer of Body, Mind and Spirit

• Interpret and promote the relationship between faith and health
• Assist individuals and families in crisis
• Bereavement visits
• Incorporate spiritual values into health education
• Use of prayer, scripture and devotional material as aids to healing