career change wanted, need info/help...

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have been in ltc nsg for over 20 yrs, with some visiting nursing and school nursing part time in past....have always wanted to do hospice nsg as this has always been my frst choice in nursing, but family , convience of current employment was ideal ...but now kids are grown, job burnout and facility changes have lead me to rethink that i'm ready to make the change....have dealt with alot of death and dying and working with families in the ltc setting, but not actually hospice....there is a local hospice service but before i consider even applying would like to know what kind of things they would expect..for instance is certification needed to even apply? just any info to get me headed in right direction would be welcome : )

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Specializes in PICU, NICU, L&D, Public Health, Hospice.
have been in ltc nsg for over 20 yrs, with some visiting nursing and school nursing part time in past....have always wanted to do hospice nsg as this has always been my frst choice in nursing, but family , convience of current employment was ideal ...but now kids are grown, job burnout and facility changes have lead me to rethink that i'm ready to make the change....have dealt with alot of death and dying and working with families in the ltc setting, but not actually hospice....there is a local hospice service but before i consider even applying would like to know what kind of things they would expect..for instance is certification needed to even apply? just any info to get me headed in right direction would be welcome : )

Most agencies do not expect certification unless they are looking for an experienced hospice nurse.

Mostly, we are looking for experienced nurses who have good clinical skills, good critical thought pathways, who are comfortable advocating for their patients even when the MD may disagree, nurses who have a strong ethical and professional base, and who understand the importance of building relationships and working in a team environment.

We look for evidence of good professional boundaries and some form of "self care" in their work/home balance.

Good luck!

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thank you so much tewdles for the info!! this is very helpful and will give me guidance to follow while i pursue this path........... :)

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