How did you get started in Hospice nursing?

[GaMBA]

Hi,

I just finished my first prereq for nursing school and I've been thinking a lot about all the different types of nursing and where my interests lie. Right now it's kind of all over the place--oncology, hospice, operating room--but I'm trying to get as much info as I can about each field I'm interested in. I'd love to know how you all got your start in Hospice nursing. What was your first exposure to it (ie as a CNA? as a Nurse? etc) and what was it about Hospice nursing that attracted you to this specialty? Also, what kind of jobs, classes and certifications should one be taking now to prepare themselves for a future in this specialty?

I am currently on-track to go to LPN school. What is their role in this field and what opportunities are there for CNAs (I plan to get my CNA cert this month) and LPNs in hospice, in terms of positions and places of employment (ie home health, hospital, etc)?

Thank you!

[GaMBA]

Did I post this in the wrong forum?

[GrumpyRN63, ADN, RN]

For me, it was a logical extension from working in oncology for many years, I wanted to try HH but cont to work w/onco pts. I always really loved the continuity of care and spirit of many of the onco pts, esp the relationship you develop with the pt and their families.

[shrinky]

My first experience with Hospice was when my fiance was dying with cancer. I had been in OB/GYN/PEDS management for years. Years later I became disgusted with the abuse and politics and the Good Lord in all of His wisdom turned me toward Hospice. I fought him for a long time but He won and the Director hired me eight years ago. I love what I do and learn so much from my patients and families. I am truly blessed and find that the docs respect us and our opinions. Our team has been my family and we support one another. Originally the other nurses didn't think that an OB nurse could make it in this field but God gave me the wisdom and k nowledge and ability to learn all I neede to succeed. They are amazed but respect me and what I have brought to the organization. Good Luck.:heartbeat

[marachne]

I am surprised, shrinky, that you met with resistance. I've seen a lot of transition from birth to death -- midwives, L&D -- to me it makes sense b/c both are dealing with the greatest life transitions, both are patient/family focused, and in both we are not "in control" (well, hospital births, maybe, but you get the idea). I find it fascinating that there are now "end-of-life" doulas -- more proof of the parallels! Personally, I use a birth analogy regularly as a way of helping families understand the "how much longer" question.