Impact of Earthquake Trauma on Nurses' Compassion Fatigue: A Study From Kahramanmaraş, Turkey
This study investigates the impact of earthquake trauma on compassion fatigue among nurses working in emergency services following the devastating earthquakes on 6 February 2023, in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey. These earthquakes, with magnitudes of approximately 7.7 and 7.6, affected 11 provinces and resulted in over 50,000 deaths and 100,000 injuries, placing emergency service nurses at the forefront of dealing with the aftermath and trauma. The concept of compassion fatigue, characterised by a reduced capacity for empathy after repeated exposure to traumatic events, is a significant concern for nurses who have been directly involved in the care of earthquake victims. This study aims to explore the extent of earthquake trauma and compassion fatigue among these nurses, examining the relationship between these two conditions and their long-term effects. Given the limited research on post-traumatic stress disorder and compassion fatigue among emergency service nurses, this study seeks to contribute valuable insights into the psychological impacts of disaster response on healthcare professionals. The hypotheses tested aim to better understand the risks and psychological burdens faced by nurses in the wake of such natural disasters.
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria:  Working in the emergency department of a hospital located in a province affected by the February 6 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes, Having worked in the emergency department for at least one year, Not having any psychiatric illness that could increase anxiety and stress levels in the last year, Not taking any medication that could affect anxiety and stress levels in the last year, Volunteering to participate in the study.  Exclusion Criteria:  Data from nurses who wish to withdraw from the study after inclusion will not be considered for the research. - Gender: All - MinimumAge: 18 Years - StdAgeList: Adult, Older Adult - StudyPopulation: The study targets emergency department nurses in areas affected by the February 6 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes in Turkey. These nurses, with at least one year of experience, have faced the disaster's challenges firsthand. The focus is on those actively involved in disaster response and recovery, excluding individuals with recent psychiatric conditions or medication that could influence stress levels. Participation is voluntary, ensuring data integrity and ethical standards. Nurses withdrawing from the study will have their data excluded. - SamplingMethod: Non-Probability Sample