Challenges Faced by Professional Interpreters During Discussions of End-of-Life (S705)

Abstract

Original Research Background. Compassion fatigue is emotional distress experienced by providers from contact with patients' suffering. Burnout is job-related distress due to uncontrollable workplace factors that manifest in career dissatisfaction. Compassion satisfaction is emotional fulfillment derived from caring for others. The body of literature on BO in healthcare providers is extensive, whereas CF and CS have not been comprehensively studied. Research Objectives. Due to ongoing exposure to patient and family distress, PPC providers may be at particular risk for CF. To address this, we conducted a study of CF, BO, and CS among PPC providers across the United States. Methods. A modified CFand CS Self-Test for Helpers and questionnaire of professional and personal characteristics were distributed anonymously to a self-generated list of providers. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models for CF, BO, and CS as a function of potential risk factors were constructed. Results. The survey response rate was 39%. The prevalence of CF, BO, and CS was 18%, 12%, and 25%, respectively. Distress about a 'clinical situation,' physical exhaustion, and personal loss were significant determinants of CF. Distress about 'coworkers,' emotional depletion, social isolation, and involvement in 'non-introduction of life-prolonging therapies' were significant determinants of BO. Not feeling distressed was a significant predictor of higher CS scores, whereas physical exhaustion, history of trauma, involvement in 'non-introduction of life-prolonging therapies,' and not talking about distressing issues were predictors of lower CS scores. Conclusion. CF, BO, and CS have direct influences on well-being and professional performance of PPC providers. To provide effective, compassionate care to patients, PPC providers must be attentive to predictors of these phenomena as well as cognizant of the impact that clinical experiences may have on these phenomena.