What is a Hospice Nurse?

Hospice nurses care for individuals diagnosed with six months or less to live who have chosen hospice care. They focus on comfort and quality of life, providing compassionate, individualized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Hospice nurses are a vital part of any hospice team, working closely with your family physician, specialist, and other dedicated professionals to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of both patients and families. The team includes doctors, nurses, social workers, spiritual counselors, home health aides, volunteers, and other specialists, all collaborating to provide personalized care and support.

All hospice nurses must be licensed in the State of New Jersey. Many of Samaritan’s nurses are also certified hospice and palliative care nurses (CHPN).

Have any questions?

You can call us 24/7 (856) 596-1600

What Do Hospice Nurses Do?

Hospice nurses provide a wide range of essential services designed to ensure patient comfort and support families:

Medical Assessments and Care Coordination: Hospice nurses monitor vital signs, assess breathing, and evaluate pain levels. They also manage pressure ulcers and other physical symptoms. Based on these assessments, they coordinate care with physicians and arrange for necessary supplies like oxygen, medications, and hospital beds.
Education and Support for Families: Nurses teach families how to administer medications, discuss side effects, and provide guidance on nutrition and skin care. They also explain the hospice philosophy, answer questions about the disease process, and offer emotional support during difficult moments.
End-of-Life Preparation: Hospice nurses offer honest discussions about what to expect as death approaches. They review important documents like Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and ensure families understand their role in providing comfort.
In-Home and Facility Care: Whether at home, in an assisted living or nursing facility, or at Samaritan’s inpatient hospice centers, hospice nurses deliver care wherever it’s needed.
24/7 Availability: Samaritan nurses are available around the clock to address concerns or emergencies. You can call anytime at (856) 596-1600.

Hospice nurses also confirm a loved one’s passing, providing reassurance and compassion during this profound moment.

The hospice nurse collaborates with your other healthcare providers and specialists.

The hospice nurse will talk to you about what to expect as death nears and will be the person who confirms your loved one has passed away.

The hospice nurse provides care in your home, assisted living or nursing home, rehabilitation facility, hospital, or at Samaritan’s inpatient hospice centers.

Call now for more information or for an assessment

Available 24/7 (856) 596-1600

How Hospice Nurses Support Families

Hospice nurses do more than provide medical care—they advocate for comfort, dignity, and understanding. Here’s how they make a difference:

Expert Pain Management: Hospice nurses specialize in controlling pain and discomfort, ensuring patients experience as little distress as possible.
Compassionate Communication: Hospice nurses guide families through the emotional challenges of end-of-life care, offering honesty and empathy.
Navigating Family Dynamics: With flexibility and professionalism, hospice nurses collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to address diverse family needs.
A Calming Presence: During times of anxiety and fear, hospice nurses bring peace and reassurance to patients and their loved ones.

Read about a day in the life of a hospice nurse

FAQs about Hospice Nurses

What Qualifications Do Hospice Nurses Have?

Hospice nurses are licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), often with specialized certifications in hospice and palliative care (CHPN). They receive training in pain management, end-of-life care, and emotional support, making them uniquely equipped to care for patients and families during this sensitive time.

How Often Will a Hospice Nurse Visit?

The frequency of visits depends on the patient’s needs. Typically, hospice nurses visit regularly to assess symptoms, manage care, and provide support. In times of increased need, such as when symptoms worsen, visits can be more frequent.

What Role Does a Hospice Nurse Play in Managing Medications?

Hospice nurses coordinate with physicians to prescribe medications that alleviate pain and manage symptoms. They also educate patients and caregivers on how to administer medications safely and monitor for side effects, ensuring optimal comfort.

Can Hospice Nurses Help with Emotional and Spiritual Needs?

Yes. While their primary focus is medical care, hospice nurses often provide emotional support and collaborate with spiritual support counselors to address a patient’s or family’s spiritual concerns. They are compassionate listeners who help patients and families navigate complex emotions.

How Do Hospice Nurses Handle Emergencies?

Hospice nurses are available by phone 24/7 to address urgent medical or emotional needs. They can provide guidance over the phone or visit in person, depending on the situation, ensuring that patients and families feel supported at all times.

What is the Role of a Hospice Nurse in the Final Hours?

As death approaches, hospice nurses ensure the patient is comfortable, pain-free, and at peace. They provide emotional reassurance to family members, explain what to expect, and confirm the patient’s passing with professionalism and compassion.

Are Hospice Nurses Available 24 Hours a Day?

Yes. If your loved one is receiving Samaritan’s hospice care, a nurse is available by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (856) 596-1600.

Do Hospice Nurses Enjoy Their Job?

Despite working closely with death and grief, many hospice nurses describe their role as a privilege. They witness and participate in meaningful moments, providing comfort and dignity. As Samaritan RN Gerard shares, “I’ve gently stroked a woman’s brow as she took her last breath, sung hymns with families, and sobbed with loved ones. I feel blessed to ensure patients are pain-free and end their journey with dignity.”