Hospice Registered Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the sphere of healthcare, the role of a hospice registered nurse has never been more crucial.

As we navigate the complexities of patient care and health management, the need for compassionate, dedicated professionals who can guide, support, and safeguard our end-of-life care protocols grows ever stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a hospice registered nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate aspects of hospice nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a fully adaptable hospice registered nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Hospice Registered Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Hospice Registered Nurses provide end-of-life care to patients, ensuring they are comfortable and supported during their last stages of life.

They also provide emotional support to family members dealing with the impending loss of their loved ones.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Develop and implement care plans tailored to the needs of individual patients
• Administer medications to manage symptoms and alleviate discomfort
• Monitor patient’s condition and update their medical records
• Assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Offer emotional and psychological support to patients and their families
• Communicate with doctors and other healthcare professionals about patients’ progress or any changes in their condition
• Educate patients and their families about the disease and its progression
• Collaborate with social workers, chaplains, and other team members to provide holistic care
• Provide bereavement counselling to families

 

Hospice Registered Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Hospice Registered Nurse to provide palliative care to terminally ill patients in our hospice facility.

Your duties will include administering medications, assisting with pain management, providing emotional support, and monitoring patient conditions.

Our ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of end-of-life patient care, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to comfort and support patients and their families during difficult times.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and supervise the care provided to the patient and their families.
• Collaborate with physicians and other professionals to plan care.
• Administer medication as prescribed by the patient’s physician.
• Provide emotional support and compassionate care to patients and families.
• Document patient status and treatment plans.
• Monitor patient condition and report changes to physician or supervisor.
• Assist in symptom and pain management.
• Provide end-of-life care and support to patients and their families.

 

Qualifications

• Valid state Registered Nurse License.
• At least two years of professional nursing experience.
• Experience in hospice or palliative care is preferred.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassionate and sensitive to a patient’s needs and concerns.
• Ability to work as part of a team.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hospice Registered Nurse
• Work Environment: Hospice Care Facility. Requires flexibility in schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Hospice Care Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Hospice Registered Nurse Do?

Hospice Registered Nurses, also known as Hospice RNs, work in hospice care facilities or provide in-home care for terminally ill patients.

They offer palliative care rather than curative treatments, aiming to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients in their final stages of life.

They perform a broad range of medical and nursing tasks such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs, managing pain and symptoms, and assisting with personal hygiene and comfort.

Hospice RNs also play a crucial role in providing emotional support to the patients and their families.

They often help patients and families understand the process and progression of the illness, and assist with end-of-life planning and decision making.

In addition, they work closely with a team of health care professionals, including doctors, social workers, and therapists, to develop and implement personalized care plans for each patient.

Hospice RNs also offer guidance on bereavement support to families, helping them cope with the grief and loss after the patient’s death.

They may conduct regular follow-ups with the family members to ensure they are managing their grief and adjusting to the loss.

 

Hospice Registered Nurse Qualifications and Skills

A hospice registered nurse must have the skills and qualifications that align with this specialized field, such as:

• Excellent clinical nursing skills and knowledge to provide end-of-life care to patients with a wide range of illnesses.
• Strong emotional resilience and empathy to support patients and their families during this difficult time, with the capacity to provide comfort and reassurance.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients, families, and medical professionals, discussing treatment plans and providing emotional support.
• Problem-solving skills to make quick decisions under pressure and address unexpected changes in patients’ conditions.
• Knowledge of pain management techniques and medication administration, often in consultation with the patient’s physician.
• Attention to detail in monitoring patient’s physical conditions and symptoms, and maintaining accurate and detailed medical records.
• Willingness to provide physical care for patients, including personal hygiene, bathing, and dressing.
• Understanding and sensitivity towards various cultural and religious views about death and dying.

 

Hospice Registered Nurse Experience Requirements

Hospice Registered Nurses are generally required to have a minimum of 1-2 years of professional nursing experience, often in a medical-surgical, oncology, home health, or geriatric care setting.

This practical experience is crucial in providing them with the basic medical knowledge and patient interaction skills needed to work in hospice care.

The most specialized role for hospice nurses often requires at least 2-3 years of direct experience in hospice or palliative care, which includes managing the physical and emotional needs of terminally ill patients and their families.

Hospice RNs can also gain valuable experience from volunteer work in hospice facilities or through internships in palliative care settings.

For those seeking advanced roles or leadership positions within hospice care, more than 5 years of experience in hospice nursing is usually required.

This includes having experience in a supervisory or managerial capacity, as well as having a deep understanding of hospice care principles and ethics.

In addition to experience, Hospice Registered Nurses must be licensed to practice in their respective states and, while not always required, many employers prefer candidates who have achieved certification as a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) from the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center.

 

Hospice Registered Nurse Education and Training Requirements

To become a Hospice Registered Nurse, a candidate must first complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), or an associate degree in nursing (ADN).

Both of these programs provide students with a thorough understanding of nursing theory, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical ethics.

In addition, they incorporate practical training in a clinical setting under the supervision of experienced nurses.

Upon completing the nursing program, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed Registered Nurse.

Experience in a nursing role, particularly in a palliative care setting, is often preferred or required for hospice nursing positions.

To specialize in hospice care, Registered Nurses may choose to obtain a certification in hospice and palliative care nursing from an accredited organization like the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center.

This certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in hospice care.

In addition, it is crucial for a Hospice Registered Nurse to have excellent communication skills, empathy, and the ability to provide emotional support to patients and their families during a challenging time.

Continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in palliative care techniques and regulations is also beneficial for career progression in this field.

 

Hospice Registered Nurse Salary Expectations

A Hospice Registered Nurse earns an average salary of $71,344 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may differ based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, geographical location, and the organization one works for.

 

Hospice Registered Nurse Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Hospice Registered Nurse need?

A Hospice Registered Nurse needs a variety of skills such as excellent communication and listening skills to interact with patients and their families.

They must possess a strong knowledge of palliative care and pain management.

They also need to be emotionally resilient to help patients and families during difficult times.

Organizational and time management skills are also vital to manage and prioritize their workload efficiently.

 

Do Hospice Registered Nurses need a special degree or certification?

While a degree in nursing is required, Hospice Registered Nurses should ideally possess an advanced degree or certification in hospice or palliative care nursing.

They need to be a Registered Nurse (RN) and it is preferable if they have a certification from the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC) or an equivalent body.

Experience in a hospice setting is also highly valued.

 

What should you look for in a Hospice Registered Nurse resume?

In a Hospice Registered Nurse resume, look for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), along with an active Registered Nurse license.

Additionally, consider experience in hospice care or palliative care settings.

Certifications in hospice and palliative care are also valuable.

Also, check for skills such as empathy, emotional resilience, excellent communication, and time management.

 

What qualities make a good Hospice Registered Nurse?

A good Hospice Registered Nurse is compassionate and emotionally strong, capable of supporting patients and their families through difficult times.

They should be patient, empathetic, and possess excellent listening skills to understand the needs and concerns of their patients.

They should also be detail-oriented, as they are responsible for administering medication and tracking symptoms.

Excellent teamwork skills are also important, as they often work closely with a team of healthcare professionals.

 

What are the daily duties of a Hospice Registered Nurse?

On a typical day, a Hospice Registered Nurse might conduct home visits to patients, monitor their condition, administer medication, and manage pain.

They would also communicate with patients and their families, providing emotional support and education about the patient’s condition.

They often collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals, such as doctors and social workers, to develop and adjust care plans.

They might also be responsible for documenting patient care and progress.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have explored the deeply rewarding yet challenging world of a hospice registered nurse.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about administering medications.

It’s about providing comfort and support, one patient at a time.

Armed with our hospice registered nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why end there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a part of a larger, meaningful journey.

Let’s embark on that journey. Together.

How to Become a Hospice Registered Nurse (Complete Guide)

Fulfill Your Passion and Your Bank Account: Fun Jobs That Pay Well

Marketplace Mavericks: The Trending Jobs of the Moment

Financial Red Flag: Jobs That Could Derail Your Budget in 2025

The AI-Resistant Zone: Careers That Thrive on Human Skill