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Rural health care worker wellness during COVID-19: Compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction & utilization of wellness resources

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  • Bridget C Bailey
  • Stephanie Cox
  • Lisa Terris
  • Dorothy van Oppen
  • Janie Howsare
  • James H Berry
  • Erin L Winstanley

Abstract

Objective: The goal of this study was to identify factors associated with compassion fatigue (CF) and compassion satisfaction (CS) among rural health care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The secondary purpose was to assess utilization of wellness resources and preferences for new resources. Methods: A survey was distributed (October-December 2020) and completed by faculty, clinicians and staff (n = 406) at a rural university. Measures included a modified version of the Professional Quality of Life Scale (PROQOL-21), the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 and the Brief Resilience Coping Scale. Respondents reported their use of wellness resources and their preferences for new resources. Results: The mean CF score was 21.1, the mean CS score was 26.8 and 42.0% screened positive for depression or anxiety. Few of the existing wellness resources were utilized and respondents’ preferences for new wellness resources included time off (70.7%), onsite food trucks (43.0%) and support animals (36.5%). Younger age, depression and anxiety were associated with higher CF. Older age, better mental health and resilience were associated with higher CS. Conclusions: Rural HCWs have high CF, yet few utilize wellness resources. Rural health care organizations may foster wellness by providing time off for self-care, expanding mental health services and building resilience.

Suggested Citation

  • Bridget C Bailey & Stephanie Cox & Lisa Terris & Dorothy van Oppen & Janie Howsare & James H Berry & Erin L Winstanley, 2023. "Rural health care worker wellness during COVID-19: Compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction & utilization of wellness resources," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 18(12), pages 1-18, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0295020
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295020
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