What are the responsibilities and job description for the Inpatient Hospice Registered Nurse (RN) Casual / As Needed position at SHARON S RICHARDSON HOSPICE?
About the Role:
The Inpatient Hospice Registered Nurse (RN) Casual / As Needed plays a critical role in delivering compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses within an inpatient hospice setting. This position focuses on managing complex symptoms, providing comfort, and supporting both patients and their families through the end-of-life journey. The RN collaborates closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized care plans that honor the dignity and wishes of each patient. Flexibility and adaptability are essential, as this casual role requires the nurse to respond to varying patient needs and staffing demands on an as-needed basis. Ultimately, the RN ensures that patients receive holistic care that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs during their final stages of life.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Current and valid WI Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience, preferably in hospice, palliative care, or a related healthcare setting.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from an accredited organization.
- Strong knowledge of symptom management, pain control, and end-of-life care principles.
- Ability to work flexible hours on all shifts including weekends and holidays on a casual, as-needed basis.
- Certification in Hospice and Palliative Nursing (CHPN) or equivalent specialty certification encouraged upon hire.
Responsibilities:
- Assess and monitor patients’ physical and emotional conditions regularly to manage symptoms effectively and provide comfort care.
- Administer medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring adherence to hospice care protocols and safety standards.
- Collaborate with physicians, social workers, chaplains, and other healthcare professionals to develop and update individualized care plans.
- Provide education and emotional support to patients and their families regarding disease progression, symptom management, and end-of-life care options.
- Document all nursing assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately and timely in compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Respond promptly to changes in patient condition and communicate effectively with the care team to adjust care plans as needed.
- Maintain a safe and compassionate environment that respects patient privacy, dignity, and cultural preferences.
Skills:
The required skills enable the nurse to perform comprehensive patient assessments and deliver effective symptom management tailored to each patient's unique needs. Strong communication skills are essential for educating patients and families, as well as collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated care. Critical thinking and clinical judgment are applied daily to respond to changing patient conditions and to make timely decisions that enhance comfort and quality of life. Preferred skills such as hospice certification and experience with EMR systems enhance the nurse’s ability to provide specialized care and maintain accurate documentation efficiently. Additionally, emotional resilience and empathy are vital skills that support the nurse in managing the sensitive nature of end-of-life care while fostering a supportive environment for patients and their loved ones.