New to Hospice Nursing

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Hi! I am new to the forum and also new to hospice nursing. I have been a home health nurse for over 2 years and love it. I recently accepted a position as a hospice nurse which I will begin in less than 2 weeks...but I am a little nervous about hospice. During my home health career, I have mainly taken care of middle to older clients and some kids. I was very upfront before they hired me in that I am not able to take care of kids who are dying. I do not cope well with kids who are extremely sick. They were very understanding and actually do not take patients less than 18 so it worked out. However, I just wanted to get an overall feel for hospice nursing. I know that it has to be rewarding and you truly help your client and family members but........what about those of you who went into it worried or not sure? What about personality and temperament of the nurse? Have you evolved into a better hospice nurse with more experience (with listening, counseling, etc.)? Any info/advice is appreciated.

Have a great day!

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Congratulations and welcome to the field of hospice nursing!

Can you pinpoint just what has you worried about going into hospice? Are there specific things that you worry you won't be up to handling?

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I guess I am mostly worried that I won't be adequate as a counselor for the family. I have not dealt with a lot of personal loss with someone extremely close, just a few people. Both of my parents are still living, etc. Just mainly my grandparents and a father-in-law (which was quite traumatic). I know that there is nothing you can say that makes it better but I want to be as supportive as I can be and know when to say something and when to shut up, I guess.

Congratulations and welcome to the field of hospice nursing!

Can you pinpoint just what has you worried about going into hospice? Are there specific things that you worry you won't be up to handling?

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I guess I am mostly worried that I won't be adequate as a counselor for the family. I have not dealt with a lot of personal loss with someone extremely close, just a few people. Both of my parents are still living, etc. Just mainly my grandparents and a father-in-law (which was quite traumatic). I know that there is nothing you can say that makes it better but I want to be as supportive as I can be and know when to say something and when to shut up, I guess.

You will have counseling services staff to call upon to truly act in the role of counselor for the family. Of course, we all act in that role to some extent on every visit as well, but the greatest impact we have is in being truly present for them and listening to them. Simple acknowledgement of their grief, anxiety, pain, fatigue, etc. and reassurance that they are strong and are actually doing well under the circumstances and that they will come through this time, and we will stand beside them is a great support for them.

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I am graduating rn school in dec. I have considered hospice as a career option. Can you tell me exactly what my role as a rn will be and what job duties are involved in hopice?

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