J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs.  2025 May;32(2):275-286. 10.7739/jkafn.2025.32.2.275.

Concept Analysis of Compassionate Care among Nurses: A Hybrid Model

Affiliations
  • 1PhD, RN, Professor, College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
  • 2MSN, RN, College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
  • 3PhD, RN, College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea

Abstract

Purpose
Compassion is integral to nursing, yet the concept of compassionate care is not thoroughly understood. This study aimed to clarify the nature of compassionate care among Korean clinical nurses using a hybrid model.
Methods
This study utilized a mixed methods approach involving hybrid concept analysis to explore the nature and attributes of compassionate care, encompassing both theoretical and empirical stages. In the theoretical stage, the domains, attributes, and a preliminary definition of compassionate care were formulated. In the fieldwork stage, in-depth interviews with 18 nurses were conducted to gather insights, which were integrated in the final stage.
Results
Compassionate care was categorized into three domains: cognitive, relational, and behavioral, with 11 defining attributes. It was defined as the capacity to recognize individual patient needs, engage empathetically with their suffering, establish trust through emotional connection, and deliver therapeutic partnership, specialized, personalized, ethical, and holistic care.
Conclusion
This study advances the understanding of compassionate care in nursing by providing a multidimensional framework. It lays the groundwork for future research and practical applications, emphasizing the need for measurement tools and strategies to promote compassionate care among clinical nurses.

Keyword

Empathy; Nurse-patient relations; Nursing; Patient-centered care
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