Comparison of specialty student physicians working in the department of pediatrics in terms of compassion fatigue, work commitment, satisfaction and psychological comfort at work: a university sample

Aims: The main objective of this study is to examine the correlations and interactions among compassion fatigue, work engagement, job satisfaction, and the perception of psychological comfort in the workplace, all of which are crucial factors influencing the professional performance of physicians specializing in the Department of Pediatrics. Material and Method: The study was organized as a cross-sectional study. In June-December 2023, sociodemographic data and the Job Satisfaction Scale, Compassion Fatigue-Short Scale, Work Engagement (UWES-6) scale, and Psychological Safety Scale were administered to resident physicians studying at the Department of Pediatrics, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty. Data were collected from 124 specialty student physicians in this educational process. Results: The level of compassion fatigue in the physicians participating in the study was 63,1 ± 23,8. Regular physical activity and the physician's perception that his/her job is suitable for him/her are protective factors in compassion fatigue (p=0.015;0.003). There are significant negative correlations between compassion fatigue and work engagement, job satisfaction, being energized at work, dedication to work and psychological comfort at work (r= -0.420; -0.380; -0.445; -0.394; -0.193). Compassion fatigue completely mediates the relationship between psychological safety in the workplace and job satisfaction. Job satisfaction completely mediates the relationship between compassion fatigue, psychological safety at work, and work engagement. Conclusion: Compassion fatigue in healthcare workers negatively affects their job satisfaction, work engagement and psychological comfort at work. Therefore, early diagnosis of compassion fatigue and preventive interventions in health institutions are important.