Healing partners: the oncology nurse and the parish nurse.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the role of the parish nurse and to examine elements of a parish nurse program and standards of care.

DATA SOURCES

Journal articles, book chapters, and personal experience related to parish nursing.

CONCLUSION

Parish nursing is a fairly new specialized area of nursing with standards of care and professional performance. The parish nurse concept has gained acceptance across the country and the number of parish nurse programs are increasing.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

The parish nurse focuses on health promotion within the context of the beliefs, values, and practices of a faith community. The role of the parish nurse centers on providing education and support to members of a congregation. Oncology nurses and parish nurses can work together as partners in providing care to patients with cancer and their families.