How to Become a Hospice Care Technician
Hospice care nurses and technicians provide care to those who are terminally ill and have a poor prognosis. Technicians, also known as hospice aides, work under the supervision of a nurse. General job duties include simple medical care, such as monitoring a patient's vital signs, helping the patient with bathing and using the restroom, and some physical therapy to prevent bed sores. Some aides also cook meals, do basic house cleaning and take patients to medical appointments. Hospice care technician or health aide positions are generally considered entry-level positions. Hospice care technicians earn an hourly rate in the range of minimum wage to about $12 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Instructions
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Apply to a private hospice care agency. Private companies whose payments come directly from the patient or patient's families and do not receive government or Medicare payments may have fewer requirements for employment. With only a high school diploma, you can usually get on-the-job training from a private agency in most states.
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Take courses through the National Association for Home Care and Hospice to become certified as a home care aid. Any health care company that provides hospice services and receives government payment must employ only certified hospice aids. This certification will make you more employable. To gain certification, you must complete 75 hours or more in a training program and pass an exam. Training topics will include how to safely move patients, how to take a pulse and blood pressure, nutritional topics and other general care needs of hospice patients.
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Apply to a nursing home, hospital or hospice care agency that receives government funding, such as Medicare payments. With a certification, you will qualify for these positions.
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Tips & Warnings
You can find hospice care positions on the National Home Care and Hospice Career Center website.
References
Resources
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