The Experiences of Compassion Fatigue in Oncology and Palliative Care Nursing: A Scoping Review

Purpose

Oncology and palliative care nursing involves prolonged exposure to suffering, death, and emotionally demanding care, placing nurses at heightened risk of compassion fatigue. Although previous research has identified associated risk and protective factors, less attention has been given to understanding how compassion fatigue develops and is sustained within clinical practice. This scoping review aimed to examine the emotional, relational, individual, and organizational processes shaping compassion fatigue among nurses working in oncology and palliative care settings.