Question about Hospice nursing.

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Specializes in Corrections, Cardiac, Hospice.

I have done cardiac nursing for almost 6 years now and love it. But I was thinking about doing some per diem Hospice work, as it was what I really liked in college. I also like the idea of being able to take care of the whole patient, rather than running in and doing the tasks necessary at the hospital. So I guess my question is this...Is there a need for a one day a week or so Hospice nurse? (I can't give up my benefits at the hospital.) What about your job do you love? What do you hate?

I have done cardiac nursing for almost 6 years now and love it. But I was thinking about doing some per diem Hospice work, as it was what I really liked in college. I also like the idea of being able to take care of the whole patient, rather than running in and doing the tasks necessary at the hospital. So I guess my question is this...Is there a need for a one day a week or so Hospice nurse? (I can't give up my benefits at the hospital.) What about your job do you love? What do you hate?

I think that all hospices have different staffing needs. We are so large that we take whatever prn time people are able to give us. I love getting to know people - spending time with people, and fixing things for them. I don't like it when I've got too many patients with high acuity. It gets hairy sometimes but I still love it. You may do this for one day a week and decide that you love it so much, you'll want to switch jobs!

Good luck.

Hello Shay! I work as a home hospice nurse part time. I also work med\surg prn. I feel as though I have the best of both worlds. I love my hospice position, and as a part timer I do not case manage. I see pts who are usually more stable in order for the cm to spend more time with those pts or families who need the cm more. I find my position is very rewarding. I actually get to make a difference, also the MD's work so much better with us than with floor nurses who have to beg for every little thing. I think most hospices will be happy for any extra help they can get for home visits. Or even in a hospice facility, you could be an extra set of hands. You will never know how great a job it can be if you dont check it out.

Specializes in Corrections, Cardiac, Hospice.

I sent an email to our nurse recruiter about doing this per diem. She said that the case load is small right now and they don't need any help! Can you believe it?:rolleyes: Oh, well. Maybe I will try another company tomarrow, lol.

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