Hospice Nursing Career Path

[mterrybsn]

I'm a new grad and no one is hiring in the hospital, so I picked up a job as a Hospice Nurse. I have personal experience with hospice and huge respect for what hospice does. I originally never saw myself in this role however because I just assumed I would go into a hospital. My goals have always been to do floor nursing for a few years and seek increasing responsibilities in management. I have plans to obtain my MSN and MBA.

My question is what kinds of opportunities will there be for me if I still am seeking a managerial role down the road? Also since this is my first job, assuming I love it and never work in a hospital is that a hindrance or an advantage for my overall career in Hospice?

I know that as a nurse in CA I can make similar money to those in hospitals, but I'm wondering if the opportunities will be there for advancement and what kind of pay I can expect as well. I'd love to hear from directors and coordinators in Hospice and what their experiences have been like and what advice specifically related to advancement within hospice might be.

Thanks in advance!

Matt

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

If your goal is to move into an administrative role in acute care (hospital), you are absolutely correct in your assumption that you will need relevant experience. Many nursing management responsibilities in an acute care environment are unique to that setting so although 'management' in any healthcare setting is a plus, it won't be enough.

However, we also need stellar nurse managers in non-acute settings such as Hospice. My advice? Get involved in 'extra curricular' activities such as performance improvement, policy review, survey preparation, etc. Let your manager know your career goals and ask her/him for advice and assistance. This may even result in a great mentoring relationship.