Topic 1: Faith-Based Nursing

Review Healthy People 2030. Identify objectives that are amenable to parish nurse intervention. Describe how faith communities can contribute to the accomplishment of these national health objectives and accomplish the goal of improving the health of the public.

How can nurses working in the community form partnerships with parish nurses and faith communities? How would such partnerships be beneficial?

Topic 1: Faith-Based Nursing

Faith-Based Nursing and Community Health

Objectives from Healthy People 2030 for Parish Nurse Intervention

Healthy People 2030 outlines various objectives aimed at improving public health, many of which are amenable to parish nurse intervention. For instance, objectives focusing on chronic disease management, mental health, substance use prevention, and health education can significantly benefit from the involvement of parish nurses. Parish nurses can play a crucial role in health promotion activities and preventive care, specifically targeting objectives such as reducing the prevalence of obesity, increasing vaccination rates, and improving mental health access. Their unique position within faith communities allows them to provide culturally competent care and education, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of these interventions.

Contributions of Faith Communities to National Health Objectives

Faith communities have the potential to significantly contribute to the accomplishment of national health objectives outlined in Healthy People 2030. By leveraging their social networks and trust within the community, they can facilitate health education and outreach programs that promote healthy behaviors. For example, faith-based organizations can organize health fairs, offer wellness screenings, and host educational workshops on nutrition and chronic disease management. Furthermore, they can provide emotional and spiritual support, which is essential for mental health and well-being. The community’s commitment to health through shared values and beliefs can foster an environment that encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles and seek necessary medical care.

Partnerships Between Community Nurses and Parish Nurses

Nurses working in the community can form effective partnerships with parish nurses and faith communities by establishing open lines of communication and collaboration. This can involve regular meetings to discuss community health needs, co-hosting health-related events, and creating educational materials tailored to the faith community’s demographics. Additionally, community nurses can provide training and resources to parish nurses, empowering them to address specific health issues relevant to their congregation.

(Topic 1: Faith-Based Nursing)

Benefits of Such Partnerships

These partnerships can be beneficial in several ways. First, they can enhance the reach and effectiveness of health interventions by utilizing the established trust and rapport that parish nurses have within their communities. Second, they can lead to a more comprehensive approach to health care, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual health services. This holistic model can address the social determinants of health and promote overall well-being. Finally, partnerships can create a supportive network for parish nurses, offering them resources and training to better serve their communities and helping them feel less isolated in their roles.

In conclusion, faith-based nursing and collaboration with community nurses can lead to improved health outcomes, increased health education, and a more robust support system for individuals facing health challenges. By working together, these groups can significantly contribute to the goals of Healthy People 2030 and promote healthier communities.

References

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). https://health.gov/healthypeople

Koenig, H. G., & Bussing, A. (2010). The role of religion in the mental health of patients: A review of the literature. Mental Health, Religion & Culture, 13(2), 1-19. doi:10.1080/13674670902946990

DeSalvo, K. B., & Wang, S. Y. (2019). The role of the community health worker in public health: Implications for practice. American Journal of Public Health, 109(S2), S133-S135. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2018.304867

Topic 1: Faith-Based Nursing