Hospice Care RN Job Description

As you embark on your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), it's important to consider your long-term career goals. While you may initially focus on gaining experience through entry-level positions, down the road, you may choose to specialize in a particular area of nursing. Hospice care is an excellent specialty to consider, particularly in light of the aging population. RNs are projected to be in high demand over the next decade, and the demand for experienced hospice care RNs is expected to rise even further.

Ideal Skills for Hospice Care Nurses

Hospice care RNs work directly with patients who are nearing the end of life, requiring a deep level of compassion and emotional fortitude. They must also possess strong communication skills to effectively interact with both patients and their families. Additional skills that are highly valued in hospice care nursing include resilience, stability, and physical stamina.

Typical Hospice Care RN Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a hospice care RN encompass a wide range of duties, including:

• Managing medications
• Educating relatives about caring for patients at home
• Providing emotional support
• Monitoring vital signs
• Delivering palliative care to ensure patient comfort

If you work in patients' homes, you may also assist with household tasks to allow loved ones to focus on the patient during their final days.

Educational Requirements for Hospice Nurses

To become a hospice care RN, you must earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at a minimum. This will qualify you to take the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to obtain your RN license. However, many hospice RNs choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, and some even earn master's degrees in hospice or palliative nursing.

Work Environments

Hospice RNs can work in various settings, including hospice facilities, nursing homes, residential care facilities, hospitals, and other healthcare-related environments. Increasingly, hospice nurses are providing care directly in patients' homes, as many patients choose to spend their final days in their own surroundings.

Career Advancement Opportunities for Hospice RNs

Similar to other nursing career paths, you will likely begin your journey as an RN performing entry-level duties at a hospital or other healthcare facility. With your BSN, you can pursue specialty certifications in hospice or palliative care and transition to working strictly as a hospice nurse. If you aspire to supervisory roles or research opportunities, consider pursuing a master's degree in hospice nursing. Through continuing education, hospice RNs can enjoy a variety of exciting career advancements.

Is a Career as a Hospice RN Right for You?

The best way to determine whether a career as a hospice RN is the right fit for you is to gain firsthand experience. Many hospices rely on volunteers, so consider volunteering at a local hospice to interact with hospice patients and gain insights into the field. If you find the work rewarding and feel passionate about it, becoming a hospice care RN could be a fulfilling and meaningful career choice.