[ArchEmesis]

I will be a new grad nurse in May 2008. I would appreciate your input on something I have been thinking about for a while.
I live in a small town in Idaho, and will be working in our community hospital (where we have an avg. daily patient census of 10 on the Med/Surg floor; and anywhere from 15 to 50 ER visits daily, depending on the season).

Does anyone have any recommendations or advice on improving the ability to set aside your emotions/personal feelings when caring for a seriously injured or ill friend or acquaintance when they appear in your Emergency Department. This situation occurs frequently here.

Thank you for your help,
Alison

[classicdame]

I too work in a small town. My experience is that the real challenge is not talking to anyone about what you see and hear. People will innocently ask how a patient is doing, because they are concerned (or nosy). You need to develop a script that you will repeat that says something to the effect of "You are nice to ask, but I am not allowed to discuss patient care". You will bond with most every patient, whether you know them or not. As long as you act professional and not too friendly you will be ok. It is ok to act friendly later, but NEVER refer to their visit if you meet them in Walmart, etc. A simple "Hope you are doing well" suffices.

[Sammijo1122]

I too am in small town Idaho, and I can see the challenges, but I think it boils down to sticking to your professional attitude whilst providing care. It doesn't mean you don't really truly emotionally CARE for them, it's just easier on them if they see a professional manner and not fear in your eyes.

Good luck!! We need you in Idaho!!

Sammi

[ArchEmesis]

Thank you for your input,
I have had the experience of having to forcefully push emotions aside to work on a seriously injured friend in the ER (as an ER Tech). I was concerned that he could tell I was upset to see him in that condition. Later, that friend told me it was comforting for him to see a familiar face as one of his caregivers. So maybe I am not as transparent as I feel...
I suppose this is one of those facets of "professionalism" that will improve with practice. In a small community, I have a feeling that there will be many more opportunities for practice. I feel that I do an adequate job of this "compartmentalization" now, but I know there is much room for improvement.