New grad in hospice = doomed?

[aphillipi]

I'm a new grad who just started working in hospice as a case manager three months ago. (I worked in a SNF for 3 months before I took my license and RAN to hospice.) I see that a lot of people on allnurses are saying that all new grads are pretty much doomed to fail in hospice because they don't have the golden two years of med surg experience (impossible in my part of the country for a new grad with only a ASN - I was Very lucky to get this position). But so far (knock on wood), I really like hospice and I'm told I'm doing a good job.

I was a CNA for almost ten years and did get some hospice type nursing experience (Roxanol, ativan, methadone, etc.) as a RN in the nursing home. And I love reading and have read every textbook on Palliative and Hospice nursing I can find. I also think I have a good head on my shoulders (got good grades, instructors liked me). Plus I have my boss on speed dial when I have a question.

But after reading the posts on this forum, I can't help but think that I don't know what I need to know. My (maybe impossible to answer) question is, what exactly do you learn in med surg that is so invaluable in hospice? Can anyone give me some examples and how it helped you in hospice?

And are there any other new grads in hospice who have succeeded long term? Thanks!

[PghRN15]

I disagree as well. Hospice nurses critically think as much as other nurses do.

[Jensmom7, BSN, RN]

One last thing if an "experienced RN" are thinking about doing hospice, "before they retire" please do it sooner rather than latter. I don't what to say "older nurse" feel well I will do it before I retire. Thinking hospice RNs just sit at the bedside and hold the patients hands.

.

Seriously? This is one of the more smug, condescending comments I have seen here (and I've seen plenty).

I've been a Hospice nurse for 6 years, and have a total of 36 years of Nursing experience.

Yes, I'm on the down side of my career. I plan to retire as a Hospice nurse. Do I think all Hospice nurses do is "sit at the bedside and hold the patient's hands"? Of course not. I spend time managing symptoms, providing emotional support to patients and families, educating family and patients on management of symptoms and the dying process.

I believe the Hospice philosophy. I believe that people have the right to die with dignity, and I will work as hard as necessary to help them be comfortable (NOT "drugged out") until they die.

I have been called a Guardian Angel, and an Angel on Earth. I consider it an honor to be there as someone takes their final journey. It's not always an easy job, but it's certainly the most rewarding, at least for me.

Just hold patient's hands, indeed.

[vampiregirl, BSN, RN]

I went from LTC to Hospice, it's been a successful transition.

Just like any type of nursing, take every opportunity to learn about hospice nursing. Apply whatever knowledge you came in with. Ask questions. Know what resources are available in through your organization. Take the initiative to broaden your knowledge base.

Maybe consider joining a profession hospice organization, they have lots of info available.

When you encounter something new, learn all you can about it.

Research the common medications your hospice uses - knowing and understanding how they work with help with symptom management.

Good Luck - Hospice is a wonderful area of nursing.