Alexandre Martins da Silveira
Beatriz Gobi
Lara Regina Aguiar Guedes
Vitória Aparecida Betussi
Fulvio Bergamo Trevizan
Abstract
Introduction: Palliative care plays a critical role in supporting patients with life-threatening and advanced-stage illnesses. Within this context, healthcare professionals and caregivers face unique emotional and psychological challenges, often experiencing a phenomenon known as Compassion Fatigue.
Objectives: This study aims to investigate and describe the emotional experiences of healthcare professionals and caregivers working in palliative care, emphasizing how compassion fatigue affects their quality of life. Additionally, it seeks to identify coping strategies used to manage the constant exposure to death and loss.
Materials and Methods: An integrative review was conducted through a bibliographic search on the topic of compassion fatigue. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, selected articles were read in full and analyzed. The search was performed using the Virtual Health Library (VHL). The research followed steps including the development of a guiding question, source selection, data extraction, analysis, synthesis, and final interpretation.
Results: Findings revealed the significant impact of compassion fatigue on the quality of life of healthcare professionals and caregivers, as well as the coping strategies employed to reduce stress. The reviewed articles led to the identification of key categories: (1) Emotional Responses of Healthcare Professionals, (2) Self-care and resilience, (3) Pandemic Impacts and Preventive Strategies, (4) Professional–Patient–Family Relationship, (5) Psychosocial and Emotional Aspects, (6) Professional Education and Training, and (7) Family caregivers.
Conclusion: Compassion fatigue is common among palliative care professionals and caregivers, driven by emotional overload, lack of support, and training gaps. Its effects compromise well-being and care quality. The literature highlights the need for preventive strategies like self-care, resilience training, and institutional support.
Keywords: Palliative care; Healthcare professionals; Caregivers; Compassion fatigue; Emotions; Patient-professional relationship; Stress.
