Parish Nursing

What is a parish nurse?

A parish nurse is a registered nurse who has completed a course in Basic Parish Nurse Certification through a university or educational network. A parish nurse is part of a faith community (church) or a hospital system. A parish nurse may also be called a faith community nurse. Parish nurses are volunteers or may be paid by their church.

What does a parish nurse do?

The parish nurse functions as a health educator and patient advocate, giving referrals for community services and also for prayer and presence in times of illness and loss.

Parish nurses link health care and spiritual care in today's high tech world, bringing back what has been done by the church for over 2000 years.

Parish nurses may plan seminars, classes, support groups, health screenings (blood pressure) and offer services such as blood drives, flu shot clinics (conducted by outside agencies or health care systems.)

How does Parish Nursing work with the pastors?

Parish nurses work with the pastors and other church staff to determine needs of members.

Parish nursing is a ministry which may assist pastors in helping parishioners cope with the absence of health in the physical, spiritual or emotional areas of a person's life.

Do parish nurses work alone?

Parish nurses may train volunteers from medicine, pharmacy, social work, nutrition and psychology as well other areas that assist health care. Parish nurses welcome others to serve as volunteers, visitors and leaders of programs.

When did Parish Nursing start?

Parish nursing was started in 1984 by Rev. Granger Westberg, a Lutheran pastor in the Chicago area. Most denominations now have parish nurses and many churches in Loudoun County have parish nurses.

What is Parish Health Ministry Team?

At Our Savior's Way Lutheran, the Parish Health Ministry Team will consist of members who are interested in congregational health ministry. This will include nurses and those from other disciplines within health care.

Is Parish Nursing a visiting nurse service?

No. Parish nursing is not a visiting nurse service, nor a substitute for home health care or regular medical care by your physician or nurse practitioner.

Parish nurses do not give direct hands-on care or perform invasive procedures. By the scope of the Nurse Practice Act, parish nurses do not do dressing changes, foot care, give injections, administer medications, etc. Referrals will be given to agencies that provide the care needed.

Can a parish nurse visit me?

A parish nurse may visit you at home or in the hospital. Please ask a pastor or call the church office. We are available for prayer support during illness, to help you understand the health care system and to encourage good communication with your physician and health care team.

Can I help?

Yes, volunteers are welcome to join us as we begin this new ministry here at Our Savior's Way Lutheran Church.

Blood pressure screenings and blood drives at Our Savior's Way
The Parish Health Ministry Team at Our Savior's Way

Diane Olsen BSN, RN
Parish Nurse

Lauren Germinario, RN
Marie Pfancuff, BSN, RN
Allison Vorderstrasse, APRN, RN