Compassion, Nursing's Lifeblood

Compassion is a core factor in quality nursing care. As definitions of compassion vary depending on historical, societal, religious, and geographical factors, this concept analysis illustrates contextual information and improves clarity in using and measuring this concept within nursing practice. Walker and Avant's (2019) concept analysis method is used to provide a structured examination of compassion in nursing, differentiating compassion from empathy. A biblical perspective of compassion is described and examples from Scripture are offered along with practical nursing implications. Additionally, ethical considerations, ancient evidence, an evolutionary view, and cultural and religious nuances are explored.