RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 12 Exploring experiences of compassion, resilience and self-care in clinical psychologists working in palliative care
JF BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care
JO BMJ Support Palliat Care
FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group
SP A351
OP A351
DO 10.1136/bmjspcare-2017-001407.12
VO 7
IS 3
A1 Laura Cramond
A1 Ian Fletcher
A1 Claire Rehan
YR 2017
UL http://spcare.bmj.com/content/7/3/A351.2.abstract
AB Introduction Compassion fatigue refers to the emotional and physical exhaustion that can be felt by professionals in caring roles, whereas compassion satisfaction encompasses the positive aspects of helping others. Levels of compassion satisfaction and fatigue have been found to be inconsistent in palliative care professionals. This could have serious implications for patients, professionals, and organisations.Aim This study explored the experiences of 12 clinical psychologists working in palliative care to learn more about the impact that supporting people at the end of life has on compassion and the support that professionals may require to remain resilient and practice self-care.Method A qualitative approach was taken, using semi-structured interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis.Results Six overarching themes were identified: Being Part of Something Special, The Therapeutic Relationship at The End of Life, Pressure to do More With Less, The Change in Self as a Result of Involvement, The Idea of the Consummate Professional, and Practicing What you Preach. The professionals’ experiences were characterised by the relationship between them and patients at the end of life, the lasting impact of the work on professionals, and the effects of recent organisational change in healthcare.Conclusions Professionals working in palliative care should be supported to reflect on their experiences of compassion fatigue and satisfaction, and encouraged to consider how to practice good self-care to protect their well-being, build resilience and ensure the quality of patient care.