What is compassion fatigue, and how does it affect nurses?
Compassion fatigue, often referred to as secondary traumatic stress, occurs when nurses are repeatedly exposed to the trauma and suffering of their patients. This can lead to emotional exhaustion, decreased ability to empathize, and a feeling of helplessness. Compassion fatigue can negatively impact a nurse's personal life, leading to withdrawal from social interactions and a decrease in overall life satisfaction. It can also affect job performance, increasing the risk of errors and compromising patient care.
