Compassionate care: Can it be defined, provided, and measured?

Abstract

The concept of compassion inherent in the nursing profession is a significant value. It motivates nurses to act ethically and in a sensitive way while providing care. Compassion is an essential element of good nursing care. Thus, compassionate care is not only a significant part of modern patient care but also a vital function of professional nursing. Although it is known as a fundamental characteristic of nursing, there are limited data about the characteristics of compassion. More data is needed regarding whether and how often compassion is included in nursing practices. As with the concept of compassion, there are difficulties with the exact definition of compassionate care, what compassionate care behaviors include, and how provision of compassionate care can be proven or measured. This review comprehensively discusses information regarding the concept of compassion and its significance in nursing, compassionate care, and compassionate care behaviors. We also discuss measurement of compassionate care in accordance with the current literature.