The Mediating Role of Meaning in Life in the Relationship Between Spirituality and Compassion Fatigue among Nurses.

INTRODUCTION

Nurses face high emotional demands, increasing the risk of compassion fatigue. Spirituality and meaning in life may serve as protective resources, particularly in southeastern Türkiye, where cultural values shape coping processes.

METHODS

This descriptive, cross-sectional study included 252 nurses from a training and research hospital. Data were collected using the Compassion Fatigue Short Scale, Meaning in Life Scale, and Employee Spirituality Scale.

RESULTS

Spirituality was positively associated with meaning in life (B = 0.15, p < .001), while meaning in life was negatively associated with compassion fatigue (B = -0.60, p < .05). The direct effect of spirituality on compassion fatigue was not significant; however, a significant indirect effect via meaning in life (B = -0.096, 95% CI [-0.176, -0.030]) indicated mediation.

DISCUSSION: Meaning in life may mediate the relationship between spirituality and compassion fatigue. Supporting nurses' existential and spiritual resources may enhance resilience, especially in culturally sensitive contexts.