Abstract
Clinicians experience times when personal and professional relationships may seem blurred. The effective home care or hospice professional is vigilant about being aware of this possibility. Understanding the power of relationships, the professional's role, recognizing potential areas of vulnerability, and the challenges with dual relationships are explained within the context of two case examples. This article emphasizes that intentional self-awareness can offset the potential for compassion fatigue and burnout. Specific self-care suggestions help the reader understand ways to develop healthy, effective professional relationships that ensure continued satisfaction and wellness both personally and professionally.