Hospice Nursing
What You Need to Know About Becoming a Hospice Nurse
Hospice and palliative care nurses provide care and pain relief to patients in the final stages of life. Their goal is to help their patients live as comfortably and independently as possible and with the least amount of pain in their final days. One of the most important parts of a hospice nurse’s job is to provide emotional support to the patients and their families and help them feel more comfortable about death.
Preparation Path
Attain a BSN
Pass the NCLEX and become an RN
Work for two years in a hospice-related field
Get Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) certification (voluntary)
Typical Tasks
- Monitoring and recording vital signs
- Helping to carry out treatment plans
- Evaluating diagnostic tests
- Assessing the psychological and emotional needs of patients and their families
- Explaining what to expect during the dying process
- Counseling and providing grief support to family members
Employment Settings
- Hospice facilities
- Patient homes
- Long-term care facilities
Annual Salary Range
$49,831 – $82,023
Certification
RN, Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN)
Education Requirements
BSN
