COMPASSION SUSTAINMENT: BURN NURSE RESILIENCE

This study investigates the interplay between psychological capital (PsyCap)—comprising hope, efficacy, resilience, and optimism—and the sustainment of compassion among burn nurses exposed to chronic patient suffering. Recognizing the critical role of compassion in healthcare, the research addresses the gap in understanding if positive adaptive cognitive mechanisms relate to the nurses’ ability to maintain compassion amidst emotionally taxing environments. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data from 37 burn nurses at two institutions in Galveston, Texas were analyzed. Compassion for others and psychological capital were captured using the validated instruments Compassionate Engagement and Action Scale (CEAS) and the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ). The findings revealed significant positive correlations between PsyCap dimensions and various constructs of compassion, with several moderate to strong associations. While exposure to patient suffering was hypothesized to moderate these relationships, the relationship varied by institution, thus suggesting a contextual difference in how suffering exposure affects compassion and psychological capital. These results underscore the potential of PsyCap as a protective framework for enhancing nurse resilience and sustaining compassion in high-stress environments. The study highlights implications for clinical practice, including the design of interventions to bolster psychological resources and support nurses in delivering compassionate care, thereby contributing to improved outcomes for both patients and caregivers.

Name thesis:degree_name

PhD in Nursing (Doctoral)

Grantor

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Pierce, Caidin Ashton 1985-

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Juarez, Adrian PhD (axjuarez@utmb.edu)

Committee member dc:contributor.committeemember

• Danielle O’Connell, M.D., Karen Alexander, Ph.D., Hoang Nguyen, Ph.D., Shatoi King, Ph.D.

Language dc:language.iso

English

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2152.3/12672

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:utmb-ir.tdl.org:2152.3/12672