Clients' perceptions of distinctive aspects in nursing care received within a congregational setting

Over the past 15 years, a growing number of nurses have been working with congregations as parish nurses and in other community health nursing roles. The majority of related research has focused on describing nursing activities in congregational settings. This qualitative research study sought to understand the client's experience of receiving nursing care in the context of a congregation. Eleven individuals, who utilized nursing services provided in 2 urban Catholic churches, were interviewed. Content analysis revealed distinctive attributes participants experienced in the nurse-client interaction, including the manner of care, the focus of care, and the outcomes achieved. The ambiance, convenience, time for interaction, and reflection of the connection between faith and health were seen as distinctive characteristics of the congregational setting. Community health nurses need to be aware of the impact of setting on clients and the potential synergistic effect achieved through providing health services in a congregation.