Caregiver Compassion and the Self-Care Capabilities of Terminally Ill Patients.

Exploring Self-Care and Compassion in Palliative Care: A Comparative Study

Palliative care units serve a critical function in healthcare by providing holistic and comprehensive support to patients facing severe illnesses, mainly through the dedicated efforts of registered nurses and informal caregivers, typically family members of the patients. The professional role of nurses encompasses not only medical duties but also emotional support, requiring a high level of compassion and self-care. A recent study conducted in Istanbul aimed to investigate the relationship between the self-care abilities and compassion levels of these two groups, shedding light on their experiences and needs.

This descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2023 to July 2024 and involved the participation of 98 nurses and 96 informal caregivers from various palliative care units in Istanbul. To assess the levels of self-care and compassion, researchers utilized the Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale and the Compassion Scale, two established instruments in studies of this nature.

The findings revealed that both nurses and informal caregivers exhibited high average compassion scores, indicating a shared empathy for their patients; however, no significant difference was found between the two groups regarding these scores (p > 0.05). In contrast, the results concerning self-care abilities were more concerning. Nurses scored significantly lower in self-care compared to informal caregivers (p 0.05), revealing a gap in the nurses’ ability to engage in practices that promote their well-being.

This disparity raises important questions regarding the support systems in place for healthcare professionals, particularly those working in emotionally demanding environments like palliative care. Despite having similar compassion levels to informal caregivers, the lower self-care ability among nurses highlights the potential risk of compassion fatigue, a condition where caregivers experience emotional exhaustion due to prolonged exposure to suffering and stress.

The implications of this study suggest a critical need for enhanced support networks for nurses, including training programs focused on self-care strategies and mental health resources. Fostering a culture that prioritizes self-care among healthcare professionals could not only improve their personal well-being but also lead to better patient care outcomes.

Increasing awareness about the challenges faced by nurses in palliative care settings is essential to ensure these professionals receive the recognition and support they require. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, addressing the needs of both nurses and informal caregivers is paramount to maintain the quality and compassion inherent in palliative care.