How to become a hospice nurse

When a patient has six or less months left to live, they transition to special end-of-life care. By providing these services, hospice nurses work to ensure that the last moments of their patients’ lives are as painless and pleasant as possible. Although it takes a great deal of mental fortitude and resilience, it is a uniquely rewarding line of work that compensates well if you are willing to handle the responsibilities. On average, hospice nurses enjoy an annual income of $83,414, which is slightly more than the median RN rate. For HCPs who are interested in making the transition, this guide will show you everything you need to know about becoming a hospice nurse.

Get certified as an RN

Before you can become a hospice nurse, you need to be certified as a registered nurse. You can gain your certification by graduating from an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The former is a two-year degree that is more affordable and quicker than its counterpart, while the latter is an extensive four-year course that provides more extensive training and more professional leadership opportunities in the long term. Whichever degree you choose, you will be expected to fulfill state-specific requirements and pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).

Gain relevant experience

As with most specialized roles, most facilities require their hospice nurses to have at least one to two years of relevant clinical experience. They value hours in relevant fields such as oncology, geriatrics, and critical care. Take this opportunity to develop relevant skills such as (but not limited to) reading vital signs, offering emotional counsel, evaluating your patient for symptoms and more.

Keep in mind that hospice care also has its unique qualities. For example: you will administer medications to relieve pain instead of reducing harmful symptoms. Hospice nurses also must hold difficult conversations with their patients, especially regarding their dying wishes, and this requires a great deal of communication (verbal and nonverbal) and empathy.

Get certified as a hospice nurse

Though not strictly necessary, it is recommended that hospice nurses complete additional training programs to prepare themselves for the unique demands and rigors of their profession. Not only do you cultivate your diverse and relevant skill set, but it also proves your commitment to the field of hospice care and growing within it. In the US, there are two primary certifying boards for hospice care: the National Board for Certification of Hospice and Palliative Nurses (NBCHPN) and Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC). Before you enroll in any training program, be sure that it is accredited by at least one of the boards.

Go out there!

Congratulations! You are now qualified to apply for hospice nursing roles. Whether it is within or outside your current facility, this is a uniquely challenging field well worth investing in. Offering care and consolation to patients on their last breath is an emotional challenge not everyone is prepared for, but it is a necessary service. If you are looking for a new challenge or care strongly about the field, then hospice nursing and palliative care are well worth looking into.