What does "compassion fatigue" refer to in healthcare providers?

Compassion fatigue refers specifically to the emotional strain that healthcare providers experience as a result of being exposed to the suffering and trauma of patients. This condition arises when caregivers become desensitized or overwhelmed by the emotional demands of caring for others, particularly in high-stress environments where they encounter frequent patient suffering or distress.

While burnout can involve extended hours and exhaustion, compassion fatigue deals more with the emotional toll that the act of caregiving takes on a professional. Healthcare providers experiencing compassion fatigue may find it difficult to empathize with patients and may feel a sense of hopelessness or frustration about their ability to help. This phenomenon highlights the importance of awareness and strategies for self-care within the healthcare workforce to mitigate the emotional challenges associated with patient care.