Nurse - Parish

Job Summary

The Parish Nurse is responsible for working in consultation with the Pastor and Business Manager, to play a visible role in the life and activities of the parish, while actively participating in the mission interpretation and promotion of parish nursing. 

Job Responsibilities

The Parish Nurse builds upon common standards of practice outlined in the Parish Scope and Standards of Practice approved by the American Nurses Association and the Health Ministries Association. 

Key responsibilities include:

• Home Visits: Conduct vital signs checks (e.g., blood pressure, oxygen saturation), occasionally monitoring blood sugar, temperature, heart/lung function, and ankle edema.

• Eucharist Visits: Visit homebound parishioners who are not scheduled for Eucharist.

• Record Keeping: Maintain records of visits and assessments.

• Medical Appointment Assistance: Transport parishioners to medical appointments and assist in coordinating drivers from the Good Samaritan Driver ministry.

• Family Assistance: Teach family members how to perform dressing changes or administer injections as needed.

• Home Assistance: Help parishioners or families find appropriate in-home assistance.

• Medical Equipment and Supplies: Locate and deliver necessary medical equipment and supplies to parishioners.

• Blood Pressure Checks: Schedule volunteer healthcare professionals to check blood pressure after Mass monthly.

• Flu Vaccines: Coordinate flu vaccine clinics during flu season with a pharmacy.

• Blood Drives: Organize blood drives three times per year with a fellow parishioner.

• CPR/AED/First Aid Classes: Arrange CPR/AED/First Aid training twice a year for parishioners.

• Medical Emergency Training: Work with the hospitality ministry to provide medical emergency training during Mass.

• Health Education Presentations: Occasionally organize health education presentations for parishioners.

• GriefShare Program: Facilitate a 13-week GriefShare program twice a year.

Job Requirements

Education and Training Requirements:

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program (BSN preferred).

• Parish nurse training, Theological education, and/or Clinical Pastoral Education desirable.

• Active RN license required in the state of practice.

• Minimum of three (3) years of nursing experience, including parish nursing, public health, education, public schools, and/or home health.

• Current CPR, First Aid certifications, and a valid driver's license with vehicle liability insurance.

• Must have attended or be willing to attend a Parish Nurse Foundations course.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent communication and teaching skills.

• Knowledge of current healthcare issues related to health promotion and lifestyles.

• Familiarity with health services, resources, and organizational dynamics of churches and community agencies.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

• Active participation in church and community activities to promote holistic health philosophy and professional growth.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Manual dexterity for equipment use.

• Ability to communicate orally and in writing, with visual acuity.

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.

Machines and Equipment Used:

• Telephone, personal computer, motor vehicle, copy/fax machine, audio-visual equipment.

Bloodborne Pathogens Category:

• Non-exposure