Burnout syndrome and quality of care: Palliative care nurses’ experiences and challenges

Abstract

Background

Nurses working in palliative units are repeatedly exposed to death, complex symptom management and emotionally intense interactions with patients and families. These conditions may lead to emotional exhaustion and physical strain, which in turn can compromise care processes and outcomes.

Objective

This study aims to explore the challenges and lived experiences of palliative care nurses through a descriptive qualitative approach.

Methods

A qualitative research design employing a descriptive qualitative method was utilized. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 palliative care nurses working in state hospitals in a province in northern Turkey. The sample was selected using criterion sampling, a purposive method. Data collection continued until saturation was reached. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically following the COREQ checklist.

Results

The thematic analysis revealed two major themes and five sub-themes, highlighting the burdens of palliative nursing and the reflections of this profession on both individuals and care quality. Emotional, physical, and psychosocial strains were frequently mentioned, along with issues of burnout and the overall impact on care quality.

Conclusion

The results indicate that palliative care nurses experience emotional and physical burdens due to caring for palliative patients, and these situations cause burnout in individuals from time to time. In addition, it was determined that psychosocial difficulties can affect the quality of care in palliative units.