How do you respond when you tell people you are a hospice nurse?

I usually say, "Yes, it can be a hard job at times, but very rewarding." That pretty much covers it!

Angie

Wow, monkeymind... "heart of stone"? Just the opposite!
I tell people it's rewarding to be a part of helping families keep loved ones at home and comfortable when hospitalization won't help and a cure is not possible. And that it's a privilege to witness the great love of families during the trying time of terminal illness.

jerseyRN,

Exactly, I was stunned into silence. Your response would have been much better Hopefully I can be as eloquent as you the next time the topic comes up.

I usually respond that I feel so completely blessed to care for others during one of the most intimate and genuine times of their lives. And I so mean that!