How to Become a Hospice Nurse: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Unlike traditional nursing roles focused on curative treatment, hospice nurses specialize in end-of-life care, ensuring that patients experience their final days with as much peace and quality of life as possible. With an aging population, the demand for skilled hospice nurses continues to rise.

If you are considering a career in hospice nursing, this guide will walk you through the education and certification requirements, necessary skills, job outlook, and salary expectations. Understanding the career paths and opportunities in this field will help you make an informed decision. We will explore what it takes to become a hospice nurse and how you can build a fulfilling career in this compassionate profession.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Hospice Nurse

To become a hospice nurse, you must first earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse (RN).
Hospice nurses provide end-of-life care, pain management, emotional support, and symptom relief for terminally ill patients. Their focus is on comfort, dignity, and quality of life rather than curative treatments, often working in homes, hospice facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals.
While not required, certifications like the Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) can increase job prospects and salary potential. Specialized training in pain management, bereavement counseling, and ethical end-of-life care is also valuable.
Unlike traditional nursing, hospice nurses build close relationships with patients and their families, making empathy, communication, and emotional resilience essential. Managing grief and end-of-life discussions is a crucial part of the job.
Hospice nursing is a high-demand field, especially with an aging population. Salaries vary based on state, experience, and setting, with higher pay in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts. Many hospice nurses also transition into related fields like oncology or geriatric nursing for career advancement.

What is a hospice nurse?
What are the daily responsibilities of a hospice nurse?
What is the difference between a hospice nurse and a palliative care nurse?
How do you become a hospice nurse for 2025?
What degree do you need to become a hospice nurse?
How long does it take to become a hospice nurse?
Do hospice nurses need specialized training or certifications?
What advanced education options are available for hospice nurses?
What are the legal and regulatory considerations for hospice nursing?
How can hospice nurses effectively manage stress and prevent burnout?
How do I choose the right education program for hospice nursing?
What continuing education options are available to hospice nurses?
How does further education impact hospice nursing career growth?
What is the average salary for a hospice nurse?
What are the career paths for a hospice nurse?
What is the job outlook for hospice nurses?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Hospice Nurse

What is a hospice nurse?

A hospice nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who specializes in providing care to patients with terminal illnesses, focusing on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatments. Their primary goal is to alleviate pain and manage symptoms, ensuring patients can live their remaining time as comfortably and dignified as possible. This involves not only addressing physical needs but also providing emotional and spiritual support to both the patient and their families.

Among organizations that provide hospice services, 36% identified staffing as the top challenge in the hospice industry in 2024. The 2 year medical degrees aim to provide for this urgent need.

Beyond medical tasks like administering medications and monitoring vital signs, hospice nurses play a crucial role in educating families about the dying process and offering guidance during difficult times. They act as a bridge between the medical team, the patient, and their loved ones, facilitating open communication and ensuring the patient's wishes are respected. Their work often involves creating a compassionate and supportive environment, helping patients and families navigate the emotional and practical challenges of end-of-life care.

What are the daily responsibilities of a hospice nurse?

A hospice nurse is a specialized healthcare professional who provides compassionate end-of-life care to terminally ill patients. Their primary focus is on managing pain, ensuring comfort, and supporting both patients and their families emotionally and spiritually during the final stages of life. Hospice nurses typically have healthcare certifications and work in various settings, including patients' homes, hospice facilities, hospitals, and nursing homes.

Key Responsibilities of a Hospice Nurse

Administering medications to manage pain and symptoms
Providing emotional support to patients and their families
Educating families on the dying process and what to expect
Coordinating care with doctors, social workers, and chaplains
Ensuring patients receive dignified and respectful end-of-life care

What is the difference between a hospice nurse and a palliative care nurse?

Among employed RNs, 85% had patient care responsibilities in 2024. While both hospice nurses and palliative care nurses focus on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, there are key distinctions between their roles:

Palliative Care

This type of care can begin at any stage of a serious illness, alongside curative treatments.
It focuses on relieving symptoms, pain, and stress associated with the illness, regardless of the patient's prognosis.
Palliative care aims to enhance the patient's comfort and well-being throughout their illness.
Palliative care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and homes.

Hospice Care

This is a specialized form of palliative care provided to patients with a terminal illness, typically when they have a life expectancy of six months or less.
The focus shifts from curative treatment to comfort care, prioritizing pain management and emotional support in the patient's final stages of life.
Hospice care emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing the patient's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, as well as those of their families.
Hospice care can be provided in homes, hospice facilities, hospitals, and nursing homes.
In essence, all hospice care includes palliative care, but not all palliative care is hospice care. Hospice is a specific type of palliative care focused on end-of-life care.

How do you become a hospice nurse for 2025?

Prior to completing their first nursing degree, 70% of RNs indicated that they were employed in a health-related job. The most common positions were nursing assistant (45%), licensed practical nurse/licensed vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) (16%), or home health aide (10%). These roles have corresponding nursing certifications.

Becoming a hospice nurse requires a combination of education, licensure, and specialized training. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Earn a Nursing Degree

To become a hospice nurse, you must first complete a nursing program and earn either:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A faster route to becoming a registered nurse (RN), but may limit job opportunities.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Preferred by many employers and provides advanced training in patient care and leadership.

2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license.

3. Gain Clinical Experience

Most hospice employers prefer nurses with at least 1-2 years of experience in areas such as:

Medical-surgical nursing
Oncology nursing
Palliative care
Geriatric nursing

4. Obtain Hospice Nursing Certification (Optional but Recommended)

To enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise, many hospice nurses earn the Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) credential through the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC). Requirements include:

Active RN license
At least 500 hours of hospice or palliative nursing experience in the past 12 months
Passing the CHPN exam

5. Apply for Hospice Nurse Positions

Hospice nurses can work in various settings, including:

Home healthcare agencies
Hospice organizations
Hospitals with palliative care units
Nursing homes

The chart below illustrates the most common nursing roles held by individuals prior to completing their degree, shedding light on the diverse experiences that contribute to their professional development.

What degree do you need to become a hospice nurse?

To become a hospice nurse, you need to earn a nursing degree and obtain a registered nurse (RN) license. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 70% of employers prefer BSN graduates, and 25% require a BSN for new hires.

To become a hospice nurse, there are online nursing programs as well as on-campus programs that you can choose from. Your degree options include:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

A faster, more affordable route to becoming an RN.
Typically offered at community colleges.
While you can become a hospice nurse with an ADN, some employers prefer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A more comprehensive nursing education, including leadership, research, and advanced patient care.
Often preferred by hospice and palliative care organizations.
May lead to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Optional for Advanced Roles

Not required for most hospice nursing jobs.
Useful if you want to become a hospice nurse practitioner (NP) or hospice administrator.

How long does it take to become a hospice nurse?

The time it takes to become a hospice nurse can vary, as it depends on several factors, including the chosen educational path and the acquisition of necessary experience. The entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 7 years or more.

Here's a breakdown of the general timeline:

Nursing Education

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) typically takes 2 to 3 years to complete.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) usually requires 4 years.
There are accelerated nursing programs, such as LPN to BSN programs, to fast-track your degree

RN Licensure

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

Clinical Experience

Most hospice agencies prefer or require RNs to have 1-2 years of clinical experience, often in areas like medical-surgical nursing, oncology, or palliative care.

Certification (Optional)

While not always mandatory, obtaining certification as a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) can enhance your credentials. This involves meeting specific experience requirements and passing a certification exam.

The time it takes to become a hospice nurse

Do hospice nurses need specialized training or certifications?

Hospice nurses are not required by law to have specialized certifications, but specialized training and certifications can improve job prospects, increase earning potential, and demonstrate expertise in end-of-life care. With a survey showing at least 34% growth expected in the area of assisted living services, earning a certification can deliver significant advantages.

Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) – Most Recognized Credential

Offered by the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC)
Demonstrates expertise in end-of-life care, symptom management, and patient support

Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse (CHPLN)

For licensed practical nurses (LPNs) working in hospice care
Also offered by HPCC

Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (ACHPN)

For nurse practitioners (NPs) specializing in hospice and palliative care
Requires an MSN degree and is considered among the highest paid nurses

Basic Life Support (BLS) & Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certifications

Often required by employers
Ensures you can provide emergency care when needed

Some hospice nurses pursue extra training in:

Pain and Symptom Management: Understanding opioid administration and comfort care
Grief and Bereavement Support: Helping families cope with loss
Cultural Competency in End-of-Life Care: Providing care that respects different religious and cultural beliefs
Ethical Issues in Hospice Nursing: Understanding patient autonomy and end-of-life decision-making .

The following chart outlines key growth areas for hospice service providers, highlighting the increasing demand for end-of-life care in various settings. It illustrates the potential for expansion into assisted living facilities, nursing facilities, and other emerging areas to meet the evolving needs of patients and their families.

What advanced education options are available for hospice nurses?

Advanced education can significantly elevate a hospice nurse’s clinical expertise and leadership capabilities. Many professionals benefit from pursuing further degrees or targeted certifications that align with the evolving dynamics of end-of-life care. For example, bridge programs such as the RN to NP pathway offer a streamlined approach to advancing from bedside nursing to advanced practice roles. These programs are designed to enhance both clinical and administrative competencies while meeting the growing need for specialized hospice services.

What are the legal and regulatory considerations for hospice nursing?

Hospice nurses operate under a strict framework of legal and regulatory requirements that ensure patient rights and safety. They must comply with state and federal guidelines concerning patient privacy, informed consent, and detailed documentation, while also addressing ethical challenges related to end-of-life care. Adherence to malpractice regulations, licensing standards, and institutional policies is critical in mitigating risks. Continuous education—including enrollment in an accelerated NP program—can strengthen legal literacy and enhance patient care practices within the ever-evolving regulatory landscape.

How can hospice nurses effectively manage stress and prevent burnout?

Hospice nurses regularly face emotionally demanding situations that can lead to burnout if not properly managed. Implementing structured self-care practices—such as mindfulness techniques, peer support, and regular debriefing sessions—can help mitigate work-related stress. Additionally, building a robust professional network and participating in targeted educational programs, including the RN to BSN fast option, can provide nurses with updated strategies to improve resilience and workload balance. Emphasizing proactive mental health support and continuous professional development fosters a sustainable work environment that enhances both patient care and personal well-being.

How do I choose the right education program for hospice nursing?

Selecting an education program that aligns with your career goals is critical to establishing a successful hospice nursing career. Evaluate programs based on curriculum rigor, clinical practicum opportunities, faculty expertise, and accreditation standards to ensure they meet industry demands. Additionally, consider programs that offer flexible scheduling and innovative learning models to help you gain contemporary skills in end-of-life care. For professionals interested in an accelerated pathway, exploring options like a direct entry MSN online can provide a significant advantage in streamlining the transition into advanced practice roles.

What continuing education options are available to hospice nurses?

Hospice nurses can benefit from targeted continuing education programs that offer specialized training in pain management, mental health, and advanced palliative care techniques. Many accredited courses provide updates on best practices for ethical decision-making and holistic care, allowing professionals to maintain clinical excellence. Nurses interested in expanding their expertise into related areas, such as psychiatric care, can consider pursuing additional certifications and bridge programs, including options like cheap psych NP programs. These programs facilitate career resilience by fostering a deeper understanding of emerging care methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration.

How does further education impact hospice nursing career growth?

Investing in further education equips hospice nurses with refined clinical competencies, prepares them for leadership responsibilities, and enhances their ability to navigate complex patient care scenarios. Advanced learning not only increases credibility and professional confidence but also supports career progression toward specialized roles with improved compensation. For professionals balancing work and study, exploring flexible RN to BSN online programs offers a practical pathway to integrate advanced education into an already demanding career.

What is the average salary for a hospice nurse?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2023, the national average annual salary for registered nurses (RNs) is $86,070, or $41.38 per hour. While hospice nurses are RNs, it is important to understand that the average salary for a hospice nurse can fluctuate based on several factors, including:

Geographic location: Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan areas and regions with a higher cost of living.
Education and experience: Nurses with advanced degrees and more years of experience typically earn more.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications like CHPN can increase earning potential.
Work setting: Salaries may vary depending on whether the nurse works in a hospital, hospice facility, or home healthcare setting.

For comparison, roles in other nursing specialties—like those involving critical care—often command higher wages. You can explore more about critical care nurse salary and how it compares to hospice and other RN roles.

What are the career paths for a hospice nurse?

The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030, an additional 9 million nurses and midwives will be required worldwide to meet global demands. Hospice nursing offers a variety of career paths, allowing nurses to specialize and advance in different areas. Here are some common trajectories:

Clinical Nurse Specialist

These nurses have advanced education and expertise in a specific area of hospice care, such as pain management or palliative care.
They often act as consultants, providing expert guidance to other nurses and healthcare professionals.

Hospice Nurse Case Manager

Case managers coordinate and oversee the care of multiple hospice patients, ensuring seamless transitions and effective communication among the healthcare team, patients, and families.
They develop and implement care plans, manage resources, and advocate for patients' needs.

If you're wondering what is a nurse case manager, it’s a role that combines clinical knowledge with administrative skills to create and manage individualized care plans while advocating for patients’ well-being.

Hospice Nurse Educator

These nurses provide education and training to other healthcare professionals, patients, and families on hospice and palliative care principles.
They may work in academic settings, healthcare organizations, or community outreach programs.

Hospice Nurse Administrator/Manager

These roles involve overseeing the operations of a hospice program or unit, including staff management, budgeting, and quality improvement.
They ensure compliance with regulations and standards and strive to optimize patient care.

Many in this role eventually pursue the chief nursing officer career path, which requires leadership expertise, strategic planning skills, and a strong clinical background to influence patient care at an organizational level.

Palliative Care Consultant

This is a role that can be done in conjunction with hospice care, or outside of it. They work with patients who have serious illnesses, and help manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Travel Hospice Nurse

This career path allows nurses to travel to different locations and provide hospice care in various settings, offering unique experiences and opportunities for professional growth.

Estimated demand for nurses and midwives globally by 2030

What is the job outlook for hospice nurses?

The job outlook for hospice nurses is strong, driven by an aging population and an increasing demand for end-of-life care services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for registered nurses (RNs) is expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, with hospice and palliative care nursing being a particularly in-demand specialty.

As more people choose hospice care over hospital treatment in their final months, the need for skilled hospice nurses in home healthcare, hospice facilities, and long-term care centers continues to rise. The shift toward patient-centered, compassionate end-of-life care has made hospice nursing a vital field. Many healthcare systems are expanding their hospice and palliative care services, creating more job opportunities.

Similar to how teaching assistant qualifications can vary depending on educational levels and institutional requirements, hospice nurses are also expected to meet specific qualifications and often pursue additional certifications to enhance their clinical and emotional care skills.

Nurses with specialized certifications like the Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) and experience in pain management, emotional support, and bereavement counseling are particularly sought after. With competitive salaries and growing opportunities, hospice nursing offers a stable and fulfilling career path for those passionate about providing compassionate care to patients and families.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming a Hospice Nurse

Becoming a hospice nurse has been the most fulfilling decision of my career. Providing comfort and dignity to patients in their final days has given my work deep meaning, and the bonds I’ve formed with families are incredibly rewarding. Hospice nursing isn’t just a job—it’s a calling that reminds me daily of the power of compassion. Marcus
I was initially drawn to hospice nursing for the flexibility, but I stayed for the profound connections I build with patients and their families. Unlike hospital settings, where care is fast-paced and impersonal, hospice allows me to slow down and truly support people through life’s most vulnerable moments. It’s emotionally challenging, but knowing I make a difference makes every day worthwhile. Gemma
With a background in oncology, transitioning to hospice nursing felt like a natural step—and it’s been the most rewarding experience of my life. The ability to ease suffering, offer emotional support, and guide families through difficult times has given me a deep sense of purpose. Plus, with the growing demand for hospice care, job security and career growth opportunities are stronger than ever. Lisa

Key Findings

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for registered nurses (RNs) is expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, with hospice and palliative care nursing being a particularly in-demand specialty.
Among organizations that provide hospice services, 36% identified staffing as the top challenge in the hospice industry in 2024.
The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030, an additional 9 million nurses and midwives will be required worldwide to meet global demands.
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 70% of employers prefer BSN graduates, and 25% require a BSN for new hires.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2023, the national average annual salary for registered nurses (RNs) is $86,070, or $41.38 per hour.
Before completing their first nursing degree, 70% of RNs indicated they were employed in a health-related job.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Hospice Nurse

How does hospice nursing in a hospital differ from a nursing home?

Hospice nursing in a hospital focuses on short-term, intensive symptom management for terminally ill patients who may have complex medical needs, often working alongside a broader healthcare team in an acute care setting. In contrast, hospice nursing in a nursing home provides more long-term, comfort-focused care within a residential environment, emphasizing daily support, pain management, and emotional well-being for patients nearing the end of life.

Can hospice nurses transition into other specialties like oncology or geriatrics?

Hospice nurses can transition into specialties like oncology or geriatrics due to their expertise in pain management, palliative care, and patient advocacy. Their experience with terminally ill patients makes them well-suited for oncology nursing, where they can focus on cancer treatment and symptom relief, or geriatric nursing, where they provide comprehensive care for aging populations.

How is hospice nursing different from regular bedside nursing?

Hospice nursing differs from regular bedside nursing in its focus on comfort rather than curative treatment, prioritizing pain management, emotional support, and end-of-life care. While traditional bedside nurses in hospitals or clinics provide acute medical interventions to treat illnesses and stabilize patients, hospice nurses focus on quality of life for terminally ill patients and their families. Hospice care is also more holistic, addressing spiritual and psychological needs, whereas bedside nursing is typically more treatment-oriented.

Do hospice nurses get paid more in certain states?

Hospice nurse salaries vary by state, with higher wages typically found in states with a higher cost of living or greater demand for healthcare professionals. States like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to offer higher salaries, while rural states may pay less due to lower demand and funding. Factors like experience, certifications, and workplace setting (hospice facility vs. home health) also impact earnings.