I felt so touched today

[Charloth03]

I am a new PCA going to college this semester and starting my pre requisite classes for nursing and also will work on my CNA. Right now, I am a new hire at a healh care agency so i can get as much experience as i need once i graduate from college. I have one week working with elders, my first day was helping a lady getting a shower and I did it pretty good. Yesterday, I walked into my new lady's house, talked to his son and introduced my self to him. I couldnt see anyone else except for him as i was walking in. I asked if his mom was at home and he said yeah she is there sitting in the couch next to you, however I did not noticed she was sitting there since i didn't see any movement at all, when I saw her i felt very touched, it was like seing my grandmother in her who passed away few years ago, my eyes watered a little bit and remembered i had to control myself, fortunatelly his son didn't noticed it since i was facing the 95 yr old lady. She was sitting there with her eyes closed, i got on my knees and started to talk to her but no answers from her at all. This first week was very touching to me, I am becoming more compasionate for people especially for the elders. I am blessed for being healthy and able to help this people. I am enjoying helping them and at the same time feeling sad to face suffering in them. What can I do to not involve my feelings at work? is there anyway i can see this as a only job and not as something that affects my feelings?

[blackbird singing]

It's good that it affects your feelings! In my opinion, you don't want to let it get to the point where you are no longer affected by your patients. However, you just don't want it to get to be too much. You are supposed to be sympathetic and empathetic, this makes a good care provider. But you also have to remember that it is your job. Don't get too attached, but sometimes this is easier said than done. It's hard not to! As long as you can continue to be an excellent care provider and continue your job without letting it affect the care your patients are receiving, I see no problem with it.

Good luck to you as you begin your new journey!!

[Charloth03]

yeah, this first week i was kinda down for seeing too much suffering. I think this is something i have to get over. thx