Our Parish Nurse Program

St. John's has a parish nurse as part of the staff.  A parish nurse (also called a faith community nurse) is a volunteer or paid professional nurse.  The American Nurses Association and Health Ministry Association have developed seven standards of practice and nine standards of professional performance for faith community nurses.  A parish nurse does not provide typical hands-on nursing care such as giving medications or changing dressings.  According to the International Parish Nurse Resouce Center there are seven roles of a parish nurse

• Integrator of Faith and Health - Works to improve health of body, mind, spirit, community, and creation.
• Health Educator - Provides opportunities to learn about health issues
• Health Couselor - Duscusses health concerns, emphasizing early response to problems and encouraging healthy lifestyles.
• Referral Advisor - Provides referral to healthcare and social services.
• Health Advocate - Speaks out to help others obtain needed health services.
• Developer of Support Groups - Facilitates support groups for the community
• Volunteer Coordinator - Coordinates vounteers who help those in need

The parish nurse ministry at St. John's United Church of Christ offers office hours each weekend, rotating between Saturday and Sunday services. During office hours you can have your blood pressure checked, ask questions about medication or health issues, or simply talk to the parish nurse. Health education programs are offered periodically.  Examples of past programs include: Heart Attack Signs, Seasonal Affective Disorders, the Five Wishes program, and Healthy Diet.  The parish nurse visits members in homes, hospitals, and nursing homes.  The parish nurse is also available by phone call.  All interactions with the parish nurse are confidential, although the parish nurse may work with the minister to assist members in times of crisis.

Upcoming Parish Nurse Events!