ICU / Cardiac Cath Lab RN Wants to Transition to Hospice

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Hello Nurse Beth,

I have been an ICU and Cardiac Cath Lab RN for 15 years. I really want to make a change and I want to become a Hospice RN. I am an ADN and I should have my BSN in less than one year. How hard of a transition will it be? Most Hospices want at least one year experience in Hospice or Home Health nursing. What would be the best way to get my foot in the door?

---

Dear Wants to be a Hospice Nurse,

I can't say how hard of a transition it will be for you, hospice practice is so different from ICU & Cath Lab. But you are feeling a calling, and the changes may all be easy for you.

The way to get your foot in the door is through networking- let everyone know your goal is Hospice. Many if not most jobs come through someone you know. Your classmates are good networking sources as well as your work colleagues.

When you start applying, be prepared to apply many times, and don't lose hope. Perseverance pays off.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth