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

[ShayRN]

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?

[hubcap56]

My first hospice employer paid for the exam for CNAs, LPNs, and RNs. I had to buy the study material (@$75). I was certified while working for that employer in New York State but wasn't financially rewarded for it. I am now working in Texas for a multi-state hospice company that pays a $1500/year bonus to LPNs with the certification (after one year of employment). I think I learned a good deal in studying for the certification. As a member of the Hospice and Palliative Care Association, I receive their journal every month which helps me keep up with advances in hospice and palliative nursing.

[Irish_Libra]

The hospice company I work for doesn't 'require' it, but over the last 3yrs or so, has been sending the RN's & LPN's for it. This fall it will be my turn (finally). Our employer gives us the materials to review, sends us to the one-day seminar, & pays for the test. I never considered a monetary "reward" for obtaining it. I just want it for my own personal/professional gain/knowledge. Also, my employer is a wonderful person to work for & I like the idea of contributing to the marketability of the company if all it's nurses get certified. And yes, I did think it would make me more marketable in the future if I ever needed to change jobs.

[CLWCHPN]

Our hospital does not reimburse for the exam but do pay RN's $1:50/hour more if they are certified in the specialty that they are working in. This came about after I was scheduled to take the exam as I wanted to get the education not offered by my department. I organised a study group with other nurses and it was an excellent experience. I'd really like to get a degree in palliative and/or hospice care but it's not offered at the bachelors level that I can find and like Ginapixi I really don't see the value of a BS ;)in nursing!

[marachne]

Our hospital does not reimburse for the exam but do pay RN's $1:50/hour more if they are certified in the specialty that they are working in. This came about after I was scheduled to take the exam as I wanted to get the education not offered by my department. I organised a study group with other nurses and it was an excellent experience. I'd really like to get a degree in palliative and/or hospice care but it's not offered at the bachelors level that I can find and like Ginapixi I really don't see the value of a BS ;)in nursing!

Without getting into a "AD vs. BS" fight, I would argue that there ARE advantages, in terms of learning things at another level in getting a BS. In addition, even if base pay is the same, somepositions are often only open to those with a BS. Sometimes it is stated with the caveat "or equivalent experience," but that's a very subjective term and you are at the mercy of the person doing the hiring.