Too attached

I think we're human and sometimes you form a deeper bond with a patient/family. Accept that, but remember your coworkers are knowledgeable and able to care for the patient/family. Sometimes we have favorites and sometimes patient/family have a favorite nurse or staff member. Remember you will see them again the next time you work and even if you were not assigned to them that day you could still stop in and say hi, as we are a team and help each other with patients, right.

I admit occasionally I will check on a patient on my day off if the nurse on is someone I trust, just a heads up how did the test or procedure go, are they ok if they were doing poorly. Before anyone flames me this does happen on occasion and I know I'm not the only nurse that has done that.

Otherwise if I'm concerned about someone I know I will check in the next day I work and at least say hi if I'm not assigned. I don't see anything wrong in that. Also we are all a team and answer call lights and help assist with patient care especially working nights with a skeleton crew.

Remember you can always keep them in your prayers and I like to say a "blanket" prayer for all my patients (past/present) for God to bless and protect them and help them.

You built rapport and a connection with the family and the patient and that is nothing to be ashamed about. You are a caring and compassionate nurse and you feel obligated to that patient. I know what it is like to build relationships with people it is hard when you don't have them the next day or when you are off you wonder if they are getting as good of care as you provide them. As long as you can focus and react appropriately like Esme said, then there is nothing wrong with being emotional and attached to your patients.

It's so easy to get attached to the vulnerable ones who "need" someone......mostly they need someone who is objective, and can see the whole picture. When you insert yourself into the family system, you actually become less effective (and I know you didn't do this on purpose- kids are tough).

This is actually a good thing. You have the chance to step back and analyze yourself- and how you need to strengthen your boundaries. You know in your head that she's getting good care on your days off- YOU need to take a break on your day off- to 're-charge'...

:heartbeat :heartbeat :heartbeat :heartbeat :hug:

I know exactly how you feel, Ashley. In my 2 years in the NICU, I've gotten a bit too attached a couple of times with special babies. One of them died, and it hurt like hell for a long time. I hope we can both manage these incidents better as we grow older in our vocation.

I also hope we never lose the heart that allows us to care that much.