Consequences of compassion fatigue in palliative care nurses: the experience of meaninglessness and emptiness in life

BACKGROUND: Compassion fatigue, defined as the emotional and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to patients' suffering, coupled with a diminished ability to empathize, is a significant occupational hazard in palliative care nursing, with potential adverse effects on nurses, healthcare organizations, and patient care quality. Despite its impact, the nuanced consequences of compassion fatigue from the perspective of palliative care nurses remain underexplored. AIM: Due to this issue, this study sought to explore and elucidate the perceived consequences of compassion fatigue among nurses providing palliative/end-of-life care in Iran. METHODS: A qualitative study employing conventional content analysis was conducted. Seventeen Iranian palliative care nurses were recruited via purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed to identify emergent themes. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Tarbiat Modares University, and written informed consent was secured from all participants. RESULTS: Four subcategories emerged as key consequences of compassion fatigue: (1)reluctance to remain in the ward or continue nursing, (2)forgetfulness in care delivery, (3)emotional incapacity to manage personal and professional responsibilities, and(4)a pervasive sense of meaninglessness and hopelessness toward life. The overarching theme highlighted a profound existential impact, characterized by diminished motivation and hope, affecting both professional engagement and personal well-being. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, early identification and management of compassion fatigue consequences are critical for nurse managers to enhance resilience, address emotional needs, and reduce turnover intentions.