An investigation on empathy of nurses in tertiary mental health institutions in Guangdong Province

Objective To investigate the status quo of empathy of nurses in mental health institutions, and explore the factors affecting their empathy. Methods A cross-section survey was conducted in nurses from 6 tertiary mental health institutions in Guangdong Province using the general information scale and Jefferson Scale of Empathy Health Professionals (JSE-HP). Results The average score of nurses' empathy was (82. 11±5. 46), and the total scoring rate was 58. 65%. Dimensions with scoring rate ranking from high to low were compassionate care, perspective taking and standing in the patient's shoes, respectively. Nurse level and employment type were found to be the factors influencing empathy of nurses (P<0. 05). Conclusion Empathy of nurses from tertiary mental health institutions is in a mediate level. Nursing managers should pay more attention to the mental health and needs of those N3or N4 level and temporary nurses, helping to enhance their empathy.