Objective To deeply understand the real work experience of nurses working in a pilot ward for hospice care, and to provide reference for perfecting relevant management mechanism. Methods Twelve nurses working in the first batch of pilot ward for hospice care in China were selected and received semi-structured interview, then data were transcribed and analyzed by Colaizzi′s seven-step methodology to identify the theme. Results Three themes and nine categories were identified:gains and growth, pressure and challenge, needs and expectations. Conclusion Nurses have gains and pressure during implementing hospice care in pilot ward. Specific training should be strengthened, various support and management mechanisms should be improved, and public′s awareness of hospice care should be enhanced, so as to advance hospice care.