Relationship between empathy and quality of work life in oncology nurses: the mediating role of resilience

Abstract

Background: To explore the relationship between empathy and quality of work life (QWL) in oncology nurses, with a focus on the mediating role of resilience. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary grade hospital on a sample of 321 oncology nurses in Weifang, China. Participants completed measures of the general information questionnaire, Interpersonal reactivity index for China, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and Work-related Quality of Life Scale-2. The data were analyzed by using SPSS 26.0 and Amos 20. Results: Oncology nurses’ QWL score was 3.05 ± 0.27. Their resilience, empathy, and QWL were positively correlated with each other, and resilience partially mediated the relationship between empathy and QWL (β = 0.419, P < 0.001). Conclusion: The QWL of oncology nurses should be further improved. The data revealed significant associations among empathy, resilience, and QWL, with resilience demonstrating a mediating effect in the empathy-QWL linkage. Nursing decision-makers should consider fostering organizational climates that support resilience and empathy development, as these factors show significant associations with QWL.