how long do Hospice nurses stay in that field?

[GLJorgeRN]

I am working as a hospice admission coordinator/marketer. I am finding it more difficult to deal with than what I had hoped it would be. The case manager that has been with our hospice the longest has only been there 13 mos, and she is ready to quit. I was wondering if there are many nurses who stick with this type of work long-term, and if so, any suggestions on how to cope?

[nursey_girl]

I'm actually interested in the whole hospice thing, my Dad died this last Sunday and I was so impressed with the nurses and the job they did with my Dad and my family. I'm currenlt a labor and delivery nurse. I know this is the opposite end of the spectrum, but would like some feed back as to job satisfaction of hospice workers...

[leslie :-D]

i've been a hospice nurse for 9 years.

but i think there's a difference between community hospice nsg vs. inpatient.

i've worked in-patient and never had more than 4 hospice patients.

out in the community, case loads can vary and i'm sure, some are ridiculously high, depending on your employer.

i personally find it highly rewarding and have burnt out only a few times over the years.

but it's either going to be your niche, or not. it definitely takes a special sort of person to stay in this specialty and do it well. but then again, that would go for all specialties.

i wish you luck in whatever your endeavors may be.

leslie