COMPASSION FATIGUE AND COMPASSION SATISFACTION AMONG NURSES IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN SINGAPORE : A DESCRIPTIVE QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background Ward nurses who are expected to practice compassion undoubtedly gain Compassion Satisfaction (CS) as they care for patients experiencing illness. Nonetheless, the repeated emotional investment for patients may also put them at risk of developing Compassion Fatigue (CF). CF and CS consequently affects the work-life quality of nurses and the quality of care that patients receive. An in-depth exploration is necessary to seek greater understanding of CF and CS among ward nurses in Singapore, which has yet to be explored. Aim This study will explore the phenomena of CF and CS among nurses in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Methods A descriptive qualitative method was utilised for this study. 15 participants were recruited via purposive sampling from various wards. Individual, face-to-face, and semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. An interview guide was used to facilitate the interview process. Thereafter, the six-steps of thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke (2006) was used to analyse the research data. Findings Five themes emerged from the findings: “Delineating CF, CS, and Compassion at workplace”, “Work environments pertinent to CF and CS”, “Experiencing CF and CS through the delivery of care”, “Reporting impacts of CF and CS during delivery of care”, and “Existing and suggested strategies to manage CF and CS”. Implications This study highlights the need for an increased awareness and knowledge on CF and CS, not only within the management, but in nurses as well. The pervasive impacts of CF and CS calls for active interventions at both the individual and organisational level to ensure the work-life quality of nurses. x Conclusion More research is needed to explore the experience of CF and CS with nurses of different personalities, or other healthcare professionals, to ensure the provision of quality care.