Parish Nurse
WHAT IS THE PARISH NURSE PROGRAM?
The Parish Nurse Program is a healthcare ministry designed to identify and address the health needs of the congregation through education, counseling, and advocacy. Through the integration of health and faith, this ministry strengthens the church community by focusing on each individual's physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being.
A parish nurse is a registered nurse with a current licence to practice, who has three to five years of previous experience as a registered nurse, is a member of a faith community, is committed to ongoing personal spiritual development, is able to use nursing process and communication skills to promote whole person wellness, and has completed the Parish Nurse Preparation Course endorsed by the International Parish Nurse Resource Center.
Martine Blogin, RN, MPH, is the Parish Nurse at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor.
ROLES OF THE PARISH NURSE
Pastoral Staff Member:
- Serves as a collaborative member working to address body, mind, and spirit concerns by making available parish resources, and pairing volunteers with those in need.
Spiritual Caregiver:
- Assists individuals and families in integrating faith and health in their everyday lives.
Health Counselor/Resource/Advocate:
- Listens to, supports, and gives direction to parishioners during times of need.
- Makes home, hospital, and retirement center/nursing home visits.
- Provides personal conferences to discuss health care needs.
- Advocates for and assists individuals and families in accessing health care information.
- Makes referrals to local community agencies.
Facilitator of Congregational Care Programs:
- Promotes the health of the congregation by implementing periodic blood pressure screening, a Fall flu and pneumonia immunization clinic, and an annual CPR/AED training for the staff.
- Facilitates a caregiver support group which meets the first Monday of every month.
- Coordinates the volunteer group, "Helping Hands."
- Plans our annual one-month long Spring Health Series, a 4-part educational class that is part of Adult Education at First Pres on Sunday mornings at 11 a.m. in the Lewis Room.
Health Educator:
- Heightens awareness of healthy lifestyle choices thorugh adult education programs and monthly articles in First Press, the church newsletter.
For more information about the Parish Nurse Progam, contact Martine Blogin, RN, MPH, at mblogin@firstpresbyterian.org or 734-662-4466, ext. 26.
Annual Health and Wellness Adult Education Series (2010)
sponsored by the Parish Nurse and Pastoral Care programs
11:00 A.M. in the Lewis Room
May 2 - "Chronic Pain"
Many of us know someone coping with chronic pain. Come learn about causes, diagnosis, current treatments, prevention. Learn how friends and family members can be helpful and supportive to those suffering from chronic pain.
Presenter: Edward Washabaugh, M.D., Michigan Pain Specialists and church member
May 9 - "What Do You Need to Do When a Loved One Goes To the Hospital... Being an Advocate"
Learn how to be an advocate for a family member or friend receiving care in the emergency room. How can you be helpful when your loved one is admitted to the hospital? What is your role as an advocate and how can you be most effective?
Presenter: Mary Stevens, L.M.S.W., Elder Care Manager
May 16 - "The Diabetes Epidemic...How to Stay Healthy"
Do you have questions about Diabetes? Learn about healthy lifestyles, preventing diabetes, current treatment, how to support those with diabetes.
Presenter: Pat Farris, R.N., Certified Diabetes Educator and church member
May 23 - "Alzheimer's Disease and Chronic Dementias"
What is the difference between Alzheimer's disease and age-related memory difficulties? Is there treatment? Can dementias be prevented? How can you be helpful and supportive to family and friends? Learn the answers to these questions and find out about local services and resources.
Presenter: Alzheimer's Association- Michigan Great Lakes Chapter