Compassion fatigue in palliative care: Exploring Its comprehensive impact on geriatric nursing well-being and care quality in end-of-life.

Background: This study examines the experiences of geriatric nurses in palliative care. It aims to understand how these experiences influence their well-being and the quality of care.

Methods: Conducted in the Alahsa region of Saudi Arabia, the study employs qualitative methods, utilizing in-depth interviews with 12 geriatric nurses. The analysis employs a thematic approach, enriched by iterative reflections within a multidisciplinary research team.

Results: The analysis reveals main themes: 1) the deep emotional connections between nurses and their patients; 2) the challenges faced, including compassion fatigue, high patient mortality, and communication hurdles; 3) the impact of these challenges on the quality of care, highlighting issues like diminished empathy; 4) the coping strategies used by nurses, such as self-care practices and continuous education.

Conclusions: The study concludes that coping strategies, including self-care and ongoing professional development, are vital for sustaining the nurses' well-being and ensuring the continued provision of high-quality care to Older Adults patients.