Theoretical Perspectives on Compassion Fatigue and Its Impact on Nursing Professionals

Abstract

This research explores the theoretical perspectives on compassion fatigue and its multifaceted impact on nursing professionals. Compassion fatigue, an occupational hazard prevalent among nurses, arises from prolonged exposure to patient suffering and the emotional demands of caregiving in high-stress environments. The study examines the triggers, consequences, and mitigation strategies for this condition, relying on a qualitative descriptive methodology that synthesizes insights from existing literature published between 2010 and 2025.
The methodology involves a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies sourced from databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, and ScienceDirect. Inclusion criteria prioritize articles written in English and directly addressing compassion fatigue in nursing. Excluded are studies published before 2010, non-English articles, and unrelated topics. The extracted data undergo thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and insights, which are then organized into key themes: triggers, consequences, and mitigation strategies.
The findings reveal that compassion fatigue is triggered by excessive workloads, exposure to trauma, and systemic issues such as understaffing. Consequences include emotional exhaustion, reduced job satisfaction, diminished patient care quality, and high turnover rates among nurses. These outcomes not only impact individual well-being but also strain healthcare systems. Mitigation strategies such as resilience training, peer support, and organizational interventions emerge as effective solutions, fostering emotional resilience and enhancing compassion satisfaction.
Ethical considerations ensure that the study adheres to academic integrity by utilizing only published data and appropriately citing all sources. The research contributes to the understanding of compassion fatigue and offers actionable recommendations for healthcare organizations to support their nursing workforce.