A Parish Nurse is a specially trained Registered Nurse who is called by God to the ministry of spiritual and physical care and is affirmed by a faith community to promote health, healing, and wholeness among its members, while also recognizing the interconnections of body, mind, and soul. A Parish Nurse works in partnership with the Faith Leaders of the Church, Church Councils, and members of the Faith Community. We promote wellness through health education, advocacy, spiritual support, and serving as a link for those we serve to resources in the community, health care system, and the individual's faith community. The Parish Nurse is designed to involve individuals of all ages, families, and faiths as active partners in their personal health and development.

ACTIVITIES OF A PARISH NURSE

• Focuses on health promotion and illness prevention within a spiritual domain
• Integrates faith and health by promoting an understanding between their interconnection
• Encourages individuals to become active partners in the management of their personal health
• Provides and promotes health resources
• Provides referral resources, advocacy, and coordination of services
• Identifies health needs and implements education programs supplemented by a variety of resources
• Counsels on matters of personal health and faith by offering support and encouragement during times of celebration and crisis by means of home hospital, and church visits
• Encourages and facilitates parish participation in health ministry with volunteers and support groups

Parish Nursing includes, but is not limited to the following types of activities:

• Health Fairs
• Emergency planning for individuals and communities
• Blood pressure screening
• Nutrition and exercise programs
• Prayer Shawl
• Supporting hospitalised or home-bound parishioners who are transitioning to long-term care
• Assisting families facing illness, loss, grief, and bereavement
• Supporting new parents and their babies