FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What is a Community Nurse?
Community Nurses work to improve the health and well-being of the communities they serve by educating them about illness, disease prevention, safe health practices, and how to obtain health care services. They also facilitate communication between people, their families, and the medical community in order to improve health outcomes.
Why have a nurse in this role?
Nurses are accustomed to viewing the individual and the community in a holistic manner. Their assessment ability and knowledge about options for appropriate interventions will assist them in addressing complex problems. They are familiar with health care systems and have experience in working as part of a team. They understand the course of an illness, the functional consequences of that illness and the impact on the individual and the family. They also have a global familiarity with community resources that are necessary to support the individual during a crisis. Community Nurses have the capacity to initiate interventions for the larger community based on needs that arise.
Does the nurse need to be currently licensed?
Yes, a current RN license in the State where they will provide care is necessary for individuals in this position. A nursing license indicates that the nurse does not have a criminal record and has been “active in practice” and has maintained a level of professional accountability related to continuing education
What does a Community Nurse do?
The nurse can do any of the following:
How many hours a week do they work?
Nurses work anywhere from 8-40 hours/week. with an average of about 12
How much should a Community Nurse get paid?
Community Nurses hourly rates should start at $30-$55per hour depending on their experience.
Can several communities “share” a nurse?
Yes, especially if the groups are in close proximity to one and other. However covering large areas can mean more travel and less time with members of the community.
Should a Community Nurse have Liability Insurance?
Yes. Community Nurse Connection can assist with finding a low cost high coverage option.
What is the difference between the services offered by visiting nurse associations (VNAs) and the services provided by a community nurse?
Home care and hospice services are skilled direct care nursing or rehab services provided to an eligible individual by a licensed professional under the orders of a medical provider. These services are paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. Community Nurse services do not require a physician’s orders nor are the services direct hands-on care. These services are not reimbursable by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance at this time.
How do we evaluate the performance of the nurse?
A performance review should be done annually. The review should consider each of the different roles of the nurse. Feedback can be obtained from the many individuals and groups with whom the nurse works. Community Nurse Connection can help you prepare an performance review tool.
How do we know this is a good investment for our community?
Evaluation can be obtained via satisfaction surveys. Specific questions can be asked about educational events and activities. Individuals who have used the services of the nurse can also be asked to comment on the value of the services.
What about continuing education for the nurse?
Continuing education is critical for professional growth. Local conferences should be pursued, but a regional or out-of-state conference should be encouraged once a year. Educational opportunities could be included in the benefit package.
Community Nurses work to improve the health and well-being of the communities they serve by educating them about illness, disease prevention, safe health practices, and how to obtain health care services. They also facilitate communication between people, their families, and the medical community in order to improve health outcomes.
Why have a nurse in this role?
Nurses are accustomed to viewing the individual and the community in a holistic manner. Their assessment ability and knowledge about options for appropriate interventions will assist them in addressing complex problems. They are familiar with health care systems and have experience in working as part of a team. They understand the course of an illness, the functional consequences of that illness and the impact on the individual and the family. They also have a global familiarity with community resources that are necessary to support the individual during a crisis. Community Nurses have the capacity to initiate interventions for the larger community based on needs that arise.
Does the nurse need to be currently licensed?
Yes, a current RN license in the State where they will provide care is necessary for individuals in this position. A nursing license indicates that the nurse does not have a criminal record and has been “active in practice” and has maintained a level of professional accountability related to continuing education
What does a Community Nurse do?
The nurse can do any of the following:
- health education
- health counseling
- referral agent/care coordination for vulnerable members of the congregation and their families
- health advocacy
- volunteer education/facilitation
- facilitate support groups
- care management
- medication reconciliation
- initiate advanced directives
How many hours a week do they work?
Nurses work anywhere from 8-40 hours/week. with an average of about 12
How much should a Community Nurse get paid?
Community Nurses hourly rates should start at $30-$55per hour depending on their experience.
Can several communities “share” a nurse?
Yes, especially if the groups are in close proximity to one and other. However covering large areas can mean more travel and less time with members of the community.
Should a Community Nurse have Liability Insurance?
Yes. Community Nurse Connection can assist with finding a low cost high coverage option.
What is the difference between the services offered by visiting nurse associations (VNAs) and the services provided by a community nurse?
Home care and hospice services are skilled direct care nursing or rehab services provided to an eligible individual by a licensed professional under the orders of a medical provider. These services are paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. Community Nurse services do not require a physician’s orders nor are the services direct hands-on care. These services are not reimbursable by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance at this time.
How do we evaluate the performance of the nurse?
A performance review should be done annually. The review should consider each of the different roles of the nurse. Feedback can be obtained from the many individuals and groups with whom the nurse works. Community Nurse Connection can help you prepare an performance review tool.
How do we know this is a good investment for our community?
Evaluation can be obtained via satisfaction surveys. Specific questions can be asked about educational events and activities. Individuals who have used the services of the nurse can also be asked to comment on the value of the services.
What about continuing education for the nurse?
Continuing education is critical for professional growth. Local conferences should be pursued, but a regional or out-of-state conference should be encouraged once a year. Educational opportunities could be included in the benefit package.
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