The effect of self-efficacy on compassion fatigue among nursing interns: The mediation of psychological resilience and social support

Self-efficacy, psychological resilience, and social support have demonstrated positive effects in mitigating compassion fatigue (CF) among nursing students. However, the dynamic interactions and combined pathways among these factors have not been systematically explored. To examine the impact of self-efficacy, psychological resilience, and social support on CF among nursing interns in China and to explore potential mediating pathways. A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted from December 2021 to June 2022, involving 1660 nursing interns across China. structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the direct and indirect relationships among variables. Self-efficacy had a significant direct effect on CF (β = -0.06, P <.001) and indirect effects through psychological resilience, social support, and their sequential mediation. Nursing educators and managers can design targeted interventions aimed at effectively alleviating CF by promoting self-efficacy, enhancing social support, and building psychological resilience.