LPN interested in hospice nursing

[iwanna]

I am just exploring getting back in to nursing. I have posted my story on other boards. Hospice, is an area of interest to me. However, the only background in nursing I have is mainly behavioral health. I became a nurse in later life, at age of 40 and now am 50. I am an LPN, but have not worked since June, 2204. I have been on disability. I have a condition called sarcoidosis, however, I am stabilized on meds. I do have some limitations, i.e. hospital nursing, ltc would be way too strenuous and stressful. However, I would be interested in hospice. Spiritually, I would not have a problem with this area. I know many that would not want to do because it is depressing. But, I don't see it that way. These people need comfort and support. I believe that I can offer this within my scope. Perhaps, I can call and shadow someone in my local area. Although, they may not want to hire me, as I have very limited med-surg experience. But, I did work geri-psych for awhile. I did wound care and foley, g-tubes feedings. Although, it has been awhile, since I have done thes things. I believe it was back in 2003.

Any LPNs in hospice? What are your duties? There is one area that I have absolutely no experience in, other than schooling is IVs. Would I need to take a course for that?

[mc3, ASN, RN]

Hi, if you PM me I can fill you in. Just too many details I don't want to go into here..

mc3

[hospicenurse MO LPN]

Hi! I am an LPN and I have been working in hospice for now over a year. I had a 17 year background of oncology/floor, home health and private duty nursing. I loved working with oncology patients and that is why I decided to go into hospice.

We, at our agency, operate on a team approach. One RN (case manager), one LPN and one HHA. We handle between 25-35 patients. I see on an average of 5 patients a day. We go into nursing homes and also see home patients. I am not BORED! And I love my job! We do alot of education of nursing home staff (on the use of Roxanol and Ativan) and we develop great relationships with our patients AND their families. Whenever I leave my patients I never know if it is the last time I will see them...and for this reason I give them 110%

[iwanna]

Thanks for replies. mc3 I have pm'd you.

[gypsyfirebird]

I'm a hospice home health LPN too and I couldn't agree with you more...I lOVE my job! Never bored, always challenging...not always easy but this is my niche and how often can a person say that!?