Evaluation of a Meditation Intervention to Reduce the Effects of Stressors Associated With Compassion Fatigue Among Nurses

Purpose of Study: This pilot study evaluated whether short (less than 10 minutes) structured meditations decrease compassion fatigue and improve compassion satisfaction in oncology nurses. Design of Study: A nonrandomized, pre-post intervention study.

Methods: Used: Participants used specific meditations designed to establish a sense of calm, relaxation, and self-compassion 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Meditations were provided on an audio-CD after brief individual instruction. The Professional Quality of Life Survey, Version 5, was administered pre and post intervention along with supplementary questions.

Findings: Fifteen nurses participated in the study over a 6-month period in 2014. Paired t test revealed that the intervention demonstrated a statistically significant increase in Compassion Satisfaction scores (mean difference = −2.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [−4.98, −0.36], t[14] = −2.48, p = .027, d = 0.63) and decreases in Burnout (mean difference = 4.13, 95% CI = [1.66, 6.60], t[14] = 3.581, p = .003, d = 0.92) and Secondary Trauma (mean difference = 3.00, 95% CI = [0.40, 5.96], t[14] = 2.174, p = .047, d = 0.56) scores. All participants reported increased feelings of relaxation and well-being on supplemental questions.

Conclusions: Even in this small sample, the practice of short breathing and meditation exercises was effective in improving nurse outcomes. A larger study is warranted including tracking sustained effects relative to maintaining a meditation practice.