Assessing the Degree of Compassion Satisfaction and Compassion Fatigue Among Critical Care, Oncology, and Charge Nurses

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the degree of compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue (CF) among critical care, oncology and charge nurses.

Background: Cumulative grief resulting from caring for critically/terminally ill patients may result in CF, leading to lower quality care and higher nurse attrition.

Method: Data were collected from 38 direct care nurses and 10 charge nurses, using the Professional Quality of Life.

Results: Charge nurses had higher secondary traumatic stress (STS) than direct care nurses. Nurses with less than 10 years of experience had lower CS than experienced nurses. Higher levels of burnout (BO) and STS were reported among charge nurses, whereas less direct care nurses had average to high BO and STS ratings.

Conclusions: Previous studies focused on direct care nurses; our findings suggest that CF is prevalent among charge nurses as well. Interventions should be considered for clinical providers and charge nurses including debriefing, stress reduction, peer support, and team building.