Suffering and death are inevitable...as is serenity and birth. To find the impermanence, beauty and growth in all things, I think we can ease our own suffering. Compassion is essential, especially a person going into such a field of service to others...however, it can take its toll to those unprepared as you fear.

We also don't want to become callous and cynical toward pain, either. If hospice care is your goal, I would suggest you also focus on self-care and always have a good therapist who understands grief...Keep regular appointments and check in -- venting your own suffering is important too. Prepare yourself by knowing that you will see suffering, pain and death...you will experience grief and loss. Although accepting these facts doesn't ease the emotional burden, it can however prepare us to take steps to care for ourselves.
I have also found that a regular meditation practice can lessen emotional stress and pain. In fact, I read an article that those who meditate and practice mindfulness have less activity in their amygdalas (the emotion center in the brain).
http://www.international.ucla.edu/bu...parentid=72539

I personally could not go into such a field, however if you feel you are emotionally prepared and are accepting that it won't always be easy, I find it admirable. Best wishes.