What the Impact is on Veterinary Teams Caring for Seriously Ill Pets

Presentation Description / Summary: Compassion stress, compassion fatigue, and burnout are frequently discussed in veterinary medicine. These terms are different and should not be used interchangeably. All have a negative impact on our professions' wellness, however another factor to consider is moral distress. Ethics are rules of conduct determined by a group and morals are individualistic and are consistently consistent. Moral stress is thought to be linked to compassion fatigue. Moral stress can be defined as “when a person is aware of what ethical principles are at stake, but external factors prevent them from doing what they think is morally the right thing.” It is important to understand that not everyone on the veterinary team makes decisions about a pet’s treatment. Veterinary technician, nursing staff and support services may have a conflicting view with the primary clinician. These team members may spend a lot more time with the animal and develop deep bonds yet feel that the treatment plan is futile, and that false hope has been given to the owner. In human medicine one survey reported that 80% of critical care nurses felt powerless and voiceless resulting in them leaving their positions. In contrast the pet owner may be demanding every possible treatment against the clinician’s advice and recent studies show that most veterinarians have been asked to provide futile care and have provided it. Open lines of communication, empowerment of all staff and team meetings to discuss these issues is vital to everyone’s mental health and maintaining a sustainable work environment.

Learner Outcomes: Objective 1: To discuss the differences between compassion stress, compassion fatigue, burn out and moral distress. Objective 2: To discuss how these issues are related to caring for seriously ill or terminally ill pets Objective 3: To discuss the importance of open lines of communication, empowerment of all staff and team meetings to maintain a sustainable work environment.