Getting certified in Hospice, what is the benefit to you?

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Specializes in Corrections, Cardiac, Hospice.

A co-worker and I were talking the other night about taking the test for our certification. What is the benefit to being certified? I see the test cost almost 400.00 to take, do you get a raise if your certified? I mean, I will probably take it just to have it, but what is the benefit, in your opinion, to be certified in hospice and palliative care?

Specializes in psych, addictions, hospice, education.

I've never worked anyplace that gave a pay raise for certification. It's been more of a personal self-challenge for me. It also didn't help me get a job.

Specializes in L&D, Hospice.

sounds like getting a BSN - does it help me get a job? not really; and i do not want to "climb the ladder" to a desk job; i went into nursing to do nursing, hands on and some times knee deep in .... I am supposed to do the hospice cert course as well (but last i heard the company will pay for it); does it give you contin ed credits?

I've seen job postings that require CHPN. I figure why not if the company pays for it.

Hello:)

The real benefit is how much you realize how much you don't know. It's a great tool to utilize in your care and the extra pennies, well, I could care less. It's also a Kudos to you for passing too!

Specializes in RN,CHPN (Certified Hospice Nurse).

I am certified. The test is about 300 bucks if you join the hospice and palliative nsg association....which is about 75 bucks to join...My work place reimbursed me, and they gave me a thousand dollar bonus. But as far as a raise goes: hmmm....I suppose it depends on your place of employment. There should be some monetary reward. There is the "reward" of solidifying your knowledge base, being up on the newest information etc. I really enjoyed studying for it (maybe for 10 hours on and off total). Good luck.

Specializes in hospice,, psych, L&D,.

I just recertified. My company gives $1.00/hour for certified nurses and also reimbursed me for the exam. I am a diploma nurse and don't have a degree. I feel certification is a way to show my competence and demonstrates my desire to go the extra mile in my specialty. It's a personal thing for me.

I am currently studying for it. My employer pays a 2000 dollar bonus per year for it which averages out to about a dollar an hour. I have gained alot of knowledge and perspective since I started studying and I would like to be considered for leadership someday. I think its also nice to have some validation of knowledge and experience, and that's what its really about.

Just to note it makes you a far more marketable candidate as well.

Specializes in Hospice/Palliative, Case Management, Med.

I was certified for 8 years...I let it expire, unfortunately, but the q 4 year exam came due just after my husband died...couldn't deal with it. Currently, I am a CCM (Certified Case Manager). It's OK, and I get more money for it, but not the satisfaction I felt with my CHPN....I think I am now ready to get my CHPN again, because I want to go back to Hospice nursing (which I did for 14 years) , and that is what I want to be recognized for. If you are really into Hospice & Palliative nursing, I don't see why you wouldn't want to pursue the CHPN. Most agencies do pay more for it, and recognize that you have attained a level of expertise beyond the average. But for me....it was just a natural progression. I am always reading and self-studying on end-of-life issues anyway...might as well remind my employer that I have that extra knowledge and expertise, with that CHPN, after the RN, CCM....right? Can't hurt.

Monika Reed, RN, CCM

Just got my annual $500 bonus for certification.

Specializes in CCU, ICU, Cardio Pul', Hospice.

Even though I do not have mine... I do plan to get it. Monetary reimbursement is great and all of that... but just think of the knowledge base you will have... and the good you can do for all of your future patients.

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