Compassion fatigue and satisfaction in oncology professionals: an integrative review

Abstract

This integrative review investigates the factors that may promote or harm the quality of life of oncology professionals, according to compassion fatigue and satisfaction criteria. Bibliographic research was conducted on the CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, MEDLINE and Virtual Health Library databases. Primary studies published in Portuguese, Spanish and English were included. Of the 909 articles found, 18 were selected for analysis by three independent reviewers. Data were summarized in tables and thematic categories. Sociodemographic factors, internal and external to the individual, can alter professional quality of life. In conclusion, intrinsic and subjective characteristics, as well as work environment aspects, contribute to the development of compassion fatigue and satisfaction.