Caring for the Body
Volume 20, Number 2 Spring 2003

Article Summaries

Editorial- Embodied Caring by Judith Allen Shelly
This editorial addressed the need to provide physical care. Recent trends have focused our attention to spiritual matters. Shelly reminds us that we are not separate parts, labeled body, mind and spirit. Our physical bodies need interpersonal relationships, discipline and help through the aging process. Our bodies are also a way in which we worship God.

I Went Instead by Carol Bence
Bence relates how a young nursing student tenderly cared for Flora, an elderly woman receiving maggot therapy for gangrene.

Is It Gonna Leave a Scar? by Sara P. Campbell
A drunken driver asked if facial lacerations will leave a scar while the ER staff struggle with their attitudes toward the man, whose DUI has killed a young child and injured her father. Campbell treats the man and wonders if his heart will be scarred.

The Power of Compassionate Touch by Victor M. Parachin
A nurse provides compassionate care for a young abuse victim. The only place the child could be touched without excruciating pain was a small spot above the right eye. Knowing the importance of touch, Phyllis reads stories to the child while gently touching that spot. The article offers to provide practical ways to demonstrate love to those in our care.

Rejoice in Suffering? Accidental Lessons by Hsueh-Fen (Sabrina) Kao
This is the first of four stories surrounding an auto accident involving Sabrina Kao. Kao offers a brief look at her accident, recovery and what God taught her in the process.

Sabrina's First Steps of Faith by Sharon Barker
Barker provides insight into Sabrina's spiritual journey prior to the accident.

A Transcending Bond by Barbara J. White and Judy Crewell
White and Crewell provide details of Nurses Christian Fellowship's unique role in providing prayer support and physical care during Sabrina's road to recovery.

God's Surprising Provision by Kathy Schoonover-Shoffner
God provided for Sabrina in amazing ways. Shoffner explains how Ty, a local NCF nurse cared for Sabrina. A nationwide e-mail prayer ministry was maintained for Sabrina.

Hands-on Care: Does Your Church Have an AED? by Donna J. Carrico
Following the death of a parishioner, a local congregation makes changes. An automated external defibrillator (AED) was purchased and members were trained in its proper use.

Chain of Survival & Cardiac Arrest by the American Heart Association (printed with permission)
This four-step link provides practical information in establishing signs of cardiac arrest, stroke or choking with appropriate interventions.

Clinical Experience in Parish Nursing by Margie Maddox
Nursing students experience a clinical rotation in parish nursing, under the supervision of a coordinator. Four specific areas included: 1) a "windshield" community assessment, 2) an educational program based on need identified for the faith community, 3) an analysis of the health needs of the community and 4) an exploration of their role as case manager, with the community as the client. Students received a wide variety of experiences.

Rethinking Our Terms: Health Ministry or Ministry of Health? by Mary Chase-Ziolek
Ziolek challenges readers to think about the leading word in health ministry or ministry of health, noting that first word is generally most important.

Are You a Help-Aholic? How to Avoid Compassion Fatigue by Karen E. Wilson
Vicarious traumatization can be identified as "compassion fatigue, a type of burnout experienced by caregivers," says Wilson. She encourages caregivers to place God first, and to remember that all things cannot be fixed. She reminds us that while we can serve others, we must do so wisely. Other items to consider are stepping back to analyze the situation, taking time for oneself, pacing oneself, exercising, and setting aside time for God.

Ruth Ewert: Street People's Nurse by Shirley Eppy
Eppy reports how Ruth Ewert's optimistic energy was focused to create a mission in downtown Toronto that meets the needs of street kids. Health care is provided at the center by professional staff that volunteers their time. Ruth's efforts have resulted in various awards, including Compassion Award and the Nightingale Award.

Responsible Relief: How to Be Sure Your Giving Really Helps by Alice Teisan
Teisan outlines stepping in creating and providing for those in need through a structured benevolence program. Guidelines direct the team in meeting needs and generally protect them from personally providing resources for requests. A helpful checklist for ministry is included with the article.

Daniela's Legacy: Nurturing Romanian Orphans by Michael Farruggia
Niculina and her husband, George, fled Romania prior to the fall of Communism. Years later they go back to establish a mission to help Romanian children who live on the streets and in the sewers. Just before departing for Romania their fifteen-year-old daughter, Daniela, was killed in a car accident. The orphanage is a legacy to Daniela, since the Daniela Foundation is being established on her family's property in Romanina.

Mary Ann Bickerdyke: Mother to the Union Boys by Marcena Walker
This historical account of Mary Ann Bickerdyke tells of her work with Union soldiers. She cleaned and sanitized camps, set up soup kitchens and laundries. She eventually became an official agent of the United States Sanitary Commission.

Billy and the Orange by Gina S. Brown
Brown recounts her experience as a young nurse with a patient named Billy, who was recovering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Billy is NPO and at one point requests to suck on an orange. Against orders, he eats the orange. Gina discovers "there is no honor among thieves." Years later, Billy finds Gina at church and thanks her for caring for him and for the orange.

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