Individuals who are interested in becoming hospice nurses must first complete a four-year bachelor's degree in nursing to become a registered nurse. These students then usually complete master's degree programs in hospice and palliative nursing. Nurses who have a master's degree are called nurse practitioners, one type of advanced practice nurse. Master's degree programs typically take two to three years to complete.
Classes in a registered nurse training program cover topics such as microbiology, anatomy/physiology, nutrition and psychology. Students also study chemistry, medical ethics and behavioral sciences. They additionally complete practical clinical opportunities to gain hands-on experience in medical facilities such as hospice settings. Courses that focus particularly on hospice care cover subjects such as geriatrics and acute care along with end-of-life care, terminal illness and psychology, according to Degree Finders.
After completing a bachelor's degree in nursing, aspiring hospice nurses must complete and pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-RN, to receive a nursing license. Also, the National Board for Certification for Hospice and Palliative Nurses officially certifies registered nurses in this specialty if they pass an examination. Certification shows that a registered nurse not only has completed the required education to practice in this nursing area but also is committed to this nursing specialty, according to Nursing School Degrees' website. Many states require hospice nurses to be certified. Hospice nurses also must meet continuing education requirements to keep their licenses and certifications.
Individuals who have completed training programs to become a hospice nurse can find work in settings such as hospice care environments, residential care facilities, skilled nursing facilities and patients' own homes. Hospice nurses also can use their training to land jobs in community and professional education, according to Ed-Reference's website. Hospice nurses can also work in research.
The outlook for hospice nurses remains strong as the population continues to grow and age. Because care for the elderly is projected to occur mostly in hospice care centers and patients' homes instead of hospitals, hospice nurses are especially in demand. The average salary for hospice nurses in 2010 was $49,000, according to Simply Hired's website.