‘Some see crying in front of patients as unprofessional. Most see it as being human’

‘Some see crying in front of patients as unprofessional. Most see it as being human’ A sense of shared sorrow or a weakness? An NHS chief executive, a paramedic, doctors and nurses weigh in on whether tears are a good thing or not

Working in healthcare can be emotionally fraught. Not only are staff working under increasing pressure but they are faced with humanity at its most vulnerable. They encounter death and witness in a week more than what most people might see over a lifetime.

Compassion is also a key part of any role in healthcare. It’s only natural that staff should need an emotional release under such circumstances. But is crying in front of patients a good idea? Does it detract from their grief or does it help professionals seem more human? Six healthcare professionals share their experiences.

The emotion of the moment ​​shouldn’t be about the doctor – it’s about the patient ​and their family Continue reading... The Guardian