It seems to me that there had to be a complaint voiced about this,in my facilty , we usually address the residents by Mr., Mrs. or Ms, and their last name. I would not feel comfortable with addressing some of them by their first name. Call it old fashioned, but the way I was raised, you always addresed your elders in this fashion. Also, as long as the joking is not inapproiate, I don't see the problem with that. Yes, that is their home, but to some we are their extended family and often develope more then just a nurse to resident relationship. After all, Iwould love to believe that LTC nurses work there because are truely compassionate about the quailty of life for the residents. I am a resident advocate and try to make all the difference that I can and usually that is with a smile, joke, hug and a prayer for them.