Always wanted to be a Hospice Nurse

[beatrice1]

I was always interested in Nursing, and after being involved with Hospice because my mother was dying of cancer at the age of 46, I knew I wanted to be a hospice nurse and make a difference like her nurses did for us.

I went back to school at the age of 45 and got my nursing degree, one year ago. I landed a job in a nursing home, which I love because I also think the elderly deserve the best care and nurses that want to make a difference. The only problem is there isn't alot of learning, trainning and the opportunity for more education when you work in LTC.

Those of you in Hospice Nursing, please tell me how I can transition in the Hospice field. What do I need to do to transition. what skills do I need, what classess or trainning can I do? Any advice would be appreciatede.

thanks,

Bea

[tewdles, RN]

I was always interested in Nursing, and after being involved with Hospice because my mother was dying of cancer at the age of 46, I knew I wanted to be a hospice nurse and make a difference like her nurses did for us.

I went back to school at the age of 45 and got my nursing degree, one year ago. I landed a job in a nursing home, which I love because I also think the elderly deserve the best care and nurses that want to make a difference. The only problem is there isn't alot of learning, trainning and the opportunity for more education when you work in LTC.

Those of you in Hospice Nursing, please tell me how I can transition in the Hospice field. What do I need to do to transition. what skills do I need, what classess or trainning can I do? Any advice would be appreciatede.

thanks,

Bea

Most hospice nursing jobs are RN positions, do not require certification or BSN, but DO require experience for field positions.

There are lots of resources for self education in the basics of palliative and hospice nursing and, dependent upon your location, there may be regular gatherings of regional professionals. Find out how you can get involved.

Consider volunteering for a hospice that you are thinking about working for. That is a low commitment "test drive" while you still have your current job.

Best of luck to you. I would think that you shouldn't have any trouble getting an interview with a hospice agency.

[MarcyRN]

Hi, Beatrice!

I'm very much like you. I went to nursing school in my late 30s with the sole intent of becoming a hospice nurse because of the amazing experience I had with the hospice nurses caring for my dad, and, 18 months later, my mom. I guess my first question would be to ask you if you're an RN or an LPN? I know most hospices look to hire RNs. If you have your RN and a couple years' experience, you should have, like Tewdles said, no trouble getting an interview with a hospice company. Another great way to break into hospice nursing is to do some time in home health. The documentation, etc., is a lot to learn. That's what's been most overwhelming to me. Good luck, and please check in to let us know how you make out!