Compassion Fatigue in Critical Care Nursing and Development of an Educational Module

Abstract

Compassion fatigue is a troubling phenomenon which affects those in care giving roles, and nurses are especially susceptible. The first purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of compassion fatigue among critical care nurses. The study also examined which demographic characteristics would be associated with a higher level of compassion fatigue. Registered nurses (N=58) from two intensive care units completed the Professional Quality of Life Scale, Version 5 (ProQOL5) and a demographic questionnaire. Overall, the level of compassion fatigue was low as measured by the burnout and secondary traumatic stress subscales. The overall compassion satisfaction was low as well. Young (18-35 years old), less experienced nurses reported significantly higher compassion fatigue than older (36 years old and up), more experienced nurses. The second purpose was to design, implement, and evaluate an educational module on compassion fatigue. Participants found the module to be beneficial and an effective learning tool.