Hugs for school kids !

[Keepstanding, ASN, RN]

While driving somewhere today, a question came upon me and I wanted to run it past you guy's to see how you feel about this.

I am an elementary school nurse and will be starting my 17th year. I have had so many times where the students want to give me a great big bear hug. Of course I hug back, because I would never want a student to feel shunned by me. I will also give "high five's" to many kids, especially the boys. (they like that better)

Just wondering what your thoughts are on this subject. I totally love and am dedicated to the children, but in today's society, hugging may not be the best to do. Makes me kinda mad that you just can't be yourself. Just lift these kids up and make them feel better. So....I would appreciate you thought's on this and how you handle hugs from muchkins ! Thanks to everyone

[luvschoolnursing, LPN]

I remember when I worked elementary (I'm high school now) a kindergarten boy, small for his age and all crying and snotty just crawled into my lap and wrapped his arms around my neck. Now how could you put him down?? My office did have windows and I was in plain sight. I did not routinely cuddle and rock the kids like I did this little one, (BTW I did call his mom and send him home) but sometimes a hug was just necessary.

Even now, some of the high schools give me a quick hug after I "fix" their broken heart-if listening counts as fixing. The boys, I don't hug.

It is a fine line to walk between being safe and being insensitive.

[Wishinonastar, BSN]

As nurses I think hugs are essential therapy to give patients PRN. Just so it is given at the right time and in an appropriate manner- not too tight or too long. High school boys - forget it. Otherwise I think hugs are fine. We are not teachers, we have to be very personal with students at times, and it is ok because we are medical professionals. In spite of what the educational system wants to make us into- we are nurses first and foremost. I always ask first before I hug- "would you llike a hug?" or let them offer it first. Love and belongingness needs according to Maslow. These are kids, and you are in the role of mom who normally takes care of their wounds and illnesses. Hugs are part of that role and increase trust. That being said, I think it is safer to offer hugs if you are in scrubs than in street clothes.