Sentimental work in the technologized hospital

Abstract

Sentiment is frequently involved in work either to get work done efficiently or because of humanistic considerations. This paper explores several questions: Are there different kinds of sentimental work? How is sentimental work carried out? When and where is it done; when not? Who does it? What is its relation to other types of work? When is it likely to be in focus for the workers? When is it visible, when invisible and to whom? What are its consequences: for work, staff, client and organization? The illustrative materials used in this paper are taken from research on the impact of technology on medical work in hospitals.