Boundaries and getting emotionally attached

[agenthoneydew]

A recent thread got me thinking on this topic. Exactly where do you draw the line as far as loving and getting emotionally attached to a patient goes, and how much is too much? Where would you say the boundary is crossed?

Although some people may disagree with me on this, I think being a CNA and having a certain amount of emotional attachment and affection towards patients is a good and healthy thing. I find that CNAs that are too cold and detached don't last too long, they tend to get bored and see the job as not much more than menial labor. It's the CNAs that really care about and love the patients that thrive in the field. But at the same time, it's about keeping a balance. You have to be able to still maintain composure and do your job if, say, something horrible were to happen to a resident. I think that's the key.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Signs of boundaries crossed:

You visit the patient on your break or day off

You buy "gifts" for certain patients

You decide no one can care for a patient as well as you

The patient (or family member) has your personal contact (cell, email, home #)

You are connected on social media

You have photos on your device or tagged in social media linking you to the patient

You feel as like you are related (The Gramdma I never knew