The funding also went to send Judy Rittgers, our part time volunteer Parish Nurse, to a week long training in Wichita about the many different areas of Parish Nursing.

We have several nurses and lay persons that help with this ministry, either by being on the committee or helping with the programs. At first the ministry consisted mostly of taking blood pressures on Sunday mornings twice a month and having articles in the church newsletter, The Spire. In September, 2006, Judy retired and started volunteering about 15-20 hours a week as Parish Nurse. Her office is off the Conference Room, just North of Sheryl’s office. Judy worked for 9 ½ years in Pratt as a Case Manager for the Area Agency on Aging and knows about services offered in this area.

Some of the activities offered through this program are:

*visitation in homes for those that are ill or have other problems they may need some advice about
*letting persons know about services in this area to help them at home
*accompanying someone to a Dr’s appointment to help listen and understand what is said

*Red Cross certified CPR classes are offered at the church to teach this life saving technique
*blood pressures are offered on a regular basis at the church on Sunday mornings
*informational & educational articles are placed in the newsletter and bulletins
*occasionally there are educational classes given at the church
*First Aid kits have been placed around the church and supplies are refilled as needed
*many reference books are available to provide information and answer questions
*Judy represents the church at the Health & Resource Council that meets monthly at PRMC
*we are a member of the Kansas Parish Nursing Ministry which is a group of persons that participate in
Parish Nursing at their local churches – many faiths are represented. This group meets monthly in Wichita where there is an educational program and everyone shares ideas for helping the people we serve

See Parish Nurse Photo Album