An experienced nurse working in oncology is shocked to realize that he/she feels little empathy when a patient explains,"I developed cancer from having to work in the dry cleaning industry since I was only 8 years old to help support my younger siblings during the depression.Now they have all moved away and refuse to help me financially,and it takes everything I have to pay for my chemotherapy medicine." What term is used to describe this situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Compassion fatigue is the correct term, as it describes the profound emotional and physical erosion that occurs in healthcare professionals over time due to the constant demands of caring for patients suffering. It can lead to a diminished capacity to empathize with their patients, as seen in the scenario.

An Experienced Nurse Working in Oncology Is Shocked to Realize