Faith Community Nursing and COVID-19: Creative and Inspired Practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Public Health
• COVID-19 Research

Background:

• Faith Community Nurses (FCNs) play a vital role in holistic care.
• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to healthcare delivery.
• Understanding the pandemic's impact on FCN practice is crucial for future preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of Faith Community Nurses (FCNs).
• To identify key interventions and needs of FCNs during the pandemic.
• To explore creative strategies employed by FCNs to meet community needs.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method, cross-sectional descriptive online survey was utilized.
• 378 FCNs completed a 20-question survey comparing practice pre- and during COVID-19.
• The survey was framed by the seven established practice areas for FCNs.

Main Results:

• Top interventions during COVID-19 included spiritual support, health promotion, and advocating for services.
• A significant need for peer support and networking among FCNs was identified.
• FCNs employed inspiring creative strategies to address community needs.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated significant adaptations in FCN practice.
• Spiritual support, health promotion, and advocacy became primary intervention areas.
• Enhanced peer support and networking are essential for FCNs' resilience and practice adaptation.