Palliative Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

A Palliative RN, also known as a Palliative Care Nurse, specializes in providing compassionate and holistic care to patients with serious illnesses. These dedicated professionals focus on enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families by managing pain, addressing symptoms and providing emotional and psychosocial support.

Essential Job Functions:

Palliative Registered Nurses (RNs) work closely with patients, families

Education

To become a Palliative RN, individuals typically need to complete a nursing education program and earn a registered nurse license. This involves obtaining a diploma, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

While specific requirements vary by employer and location, Palliative RNs often need experience in hospice or palliative care settings. Some nurses pursue certification as Hospice and Palliative Nurses (CHPN) through organizations like the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center.

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

Palliative RNs require a blend of clinical skills and compassionate qualities. They must excel in pain management, symptom assessment and effective communication. Empathy, active listening and cultural sensitivity are crucial for building trusting relationships with patients and families.

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1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

Palliative RNs conduct patient assessments, develop personalized care plans, administer medications, manage symptoms, educate families about end-of-life options, provide emotional support, collaborate with healthcare teams and advocate for patients' wishes.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Palliative Nurse
$1,732-2,534/week

The average salary for a Palliative Nurse is $2,113.52 per week.

Last updated on April 30, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Palliative RN offers a deeply meaningful career path. These nurses have the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of patients and families during challenging times. The role provides a chance to practice holistic and patient-centered care while building strong connections.

However, the emotional toll of working with seriously ill patients and supporting families through difficult decisions

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Palliative Nurse Jobs


View job details for Registered Nurse (RN) - Palliative
Staff Position

Registered Nurse (RN) - Palliative

  • AHBD - Hospital
  • Bakersfield, CA

$47-70/hour

Posted 6 days ago
View job details for Registered Nurse (RN) - Home Health Palliative
Staff Position

Registered Nurse (RN) - Home Health Palliative

  • AccentCare
  • Norwood, MA
  • 5x8 hrs

$86K-100K/year

approximately $41-49/hr
View job details for Registered Nurse (RN) - Home Health Palliative
Staff Position

Registered Nurse (RN) - Home Health Palliative

  • AccentCare
  • Westwood, MA
  • 5x8 hrs

$86K-100K/year

approximately $41-49/hr
View job details for Registered Nurse (RN) - Home Health Palliative
Staff Position

Registered Nurse (RN) - Home Health Palliative

  • AccentCare
  • Taunton, MA
  • 5x8 hrs

$86K-100K/year

approximately $41-49/hr

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