Steps to Develop an Effective Parish Nurse Ministry
1. Gather and share information
Read The Parish Nurse by Rev. Granger WestbergVisit with parish nurses, pastors and lay people who are already involved with parish nurse ministries
2. Gain support of the clergy
Clergy may help select members for task force or initial committee
3. Inform and involve the congregation
Survey for health care professionals
Show the video(s) Health Partners in the Red River Valley and/or Parish Nurse Ministry available from the Concordia College Parish Nurse Center
4. Develop a Health Cabinet, Wellness Council or Health Ministry Committee consisting of 6-12 members: health care providers, social workers, educators, dieticians, parents, health educators, potential care recipients, etc.
Clergy - generally ex-officio member
5. Establish a link with the local health care agency (optional)
Provides support and credibility
6. Select one or more parish nurses
Registered nurse currently licensed in the state in which she/he will practice; generally from within the congregation, but may choose from outside to increase confidentiality
Type of experience less important than personal faith and warm, caring presence
7. Offer initial education
INPRC-sponsored parish nurse preparation course
8. Introduce the new parish nurse
Commissioning at all Sunday services
On-going visibility helpful
9. Clarify expectations of the parish nurse
Paid or unpaid staff member, reimbursement for travel and expenses
Amount of time, space and equipment
10. Encourage spiritual growth, self-care and continuing education for the parish nurse Networking with other parish nurses on a monthly/quarterly basis is helpful Annual symposiums, conferences, workshops - informative and educational
Parish Nurse Center
