Throughout my career as a hospice registered nurse, I have focused on holistic patient care, ensuring physical, emotional, and spiritual comfort. I approach each patient with empathy and a tailored care plan that addresses their unique needs. My experience includes managing pain and symptoms, providing emotional support, and facilitating family involvement to create a comforting environment that respects the patient's dignity and wishes.

Managing emotional stress is crucial in hospice care. I practice self-care strategies such as mindfulness, regular exercise, and maintaining a supportive network of colleagues and friends. I also find it therapeutic to debrief with my team after challenging cases and participate in professional development workshops focused on grief and resilience.

Effective communication involves active listening, clear explanations, and empathy. I ensure that I listen to the patient and family's concerns and preferences, explain medical terms in layman's terms, and provide emotional support. I also use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and ensure everyone feels heard and involved in the care plan.

Prioritizing tasks involves assessing the urgency of each patient's needs and planning my schedule accordingly. I use a structured approach, starting with immediate care needs, then addressing ongoing care plans, and finally, planning for future care. Effective time management tools, such as a digital calendar and task lists, help me stay organized and responsive to each patient's unique situation.

In a previous role, I encountered a patient with complex pain management needs. I coordinated with the interdisciplinary team to adjust the medication regimen and provided continuous support to the patient and family. Through open communication and a collaborative approach, we were able to improve the patient's comfort and quality of life, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and adaptability in hospice care.