Dating at work

HM2VikingRN, RN · Jun 9, 2008

I don't think it is a good idea. Social friendships yes but not romance.

Ruby Vee, BSN · Jun 9, 2008

i met my husband at work -- we were both nurses in the same icu. we've worked in the same icu for 18 years now, been together for 13 years and this is our third hospital. never had a problem (except for running into his exes all the time at our first hospital!) not everyone can do it, and it can be hell when couples break up (saw that more than once) but i wouldn't trade my husband for anything!

curateipsum · Jun 9, 2008

I've got a good quote for you. "Don't get your meat where you get your bread." :)

My personal opinion is I have been there, done that, got the t-shirt and have vowed never to do it again. Especially if you are working for a small institution, or are in the same department. However, a big institution, might not be such a big deal.

What I have learned is that workplace romances can be scandalous, and even moreso if he is attractive to the ladies. People talk. It is almost as if they cannot help themselves. How did she get him? Did I see the two of them walk into the broom closet? She/he can do better etc...

My suggestion is life is short. Be sensible, and go slowly - just saying be sure to take time to get to know the person. It's amazing what people will show you about themselves if you give them enough time. :)

Thanks for your post, I have been waiting for an occasion to use the 'don't get your meat where you get your bread' line.

whodatnurse · Jun 9, 2008

I would say the only absolute no-no would be that you don't date anyone within your own chain of command (meaning you don't date your boss, your boss's boss, etc. nor your own subordinates, your subordinates' subordinates' etc.)

Having said that, many people do end up forming relationships with people they meet at or through work. If you do, it's best to keep it as discreet as possible (no meetups in the linen closet, no making goo goo eyes at each other). Also, ask yourself if you have the termperament to handle working side-by-side with someone in the event that things don't work out. That can be really hard on some people.

One thing I would recommend is that you brainstorm to come up with as many ideas as possible for activities and things you would enjoy doing that would put you in contact with new people outside of work and then commit to put three of them into action. People in workplaces are in various stages of life and life situations, and may not be as readily available for dating and friendships outside of work as a college age population. The more 'circles' you establish from which to get to know people, the better.

So...good luck! I believe you're off on what will prove to be a great adventure for you.

whodatnurse · Jun 9, 2008

I've got a good quote for you. "Don't get your meat where you get your bread." :)
My personal opinion is I have been there, done that, got the t-shirt and have vowed never to do it again. Especially if you are working for a small institution, or are in the same department. However, a big institution, might not be such a big deal.
What I have learned is that workplace romances can be scandalous, and even moreso if he is attractive to the ladies. People talk. It is almost as if they cannot help themselves. How did she get him? Did I see the two of them walk into the broom closet? She/he can do better etc...
My suggestion is life is short. Be sensible, and go slowly - just saying be sure to take time to get to know the person. It's amazing what people will show you about themselves if you give them enough time. :)
Thanks for your post, I have been waiting for an occasion to use the 'don't get your meat where you get your bread' line.

Here's a quote I particularly like:

Keep your wick out of the company kerosene!!!

sharona97, BSN, RN · Jun 9, 2008

I dated while still keeping it professional when working in the hospital . It was weird at times, like when he comes to your floor to check his patient and you are the nurse.

I'd still probably do the same today, but my dh is a keeper.

djc1981 · Jun 9, 2008

I think dating someone in your own unit could be tricky. Often times administration frowns upon this...but even more difficult..what if you break up? You still have to work around that person..making yourselves and everyone around you feel awkward. However, if I find a cute doc or nurse in another area ...all bets are off

anurseuk · Jun 9, 2008

Yes I would say be very careful with the doctors; once you've been with one and if it doesn't work out no matter how dignified you are etc you will get a bad name for yourself.

And watch out for the married surgeons!!!

Just be very careful if you do meet someone, try and keep work as seperate as possible and keep it very quiet.

I've seen this go very wrong where a friend has been pushed out of the job she liked all because she was more dispensible:icon_roll

saying that though, i can see the appeal as you have things in common, know each others hours etc but...... doctors lind of turn me off these days!!! never say never I guess.

Enjoy your new post:)

jelorde37 · Jun 9, 2008

dude, i wish work was like grey's anatomy, but the sad truth is that most of the time it is not. it would be cool and make work kind of exciting, but think of the drama that would be involved, specially during a conflict. imagine getting the silent treatment during a code that only you and your significant other are running? i see someone getting shocked.