Nurses' empathy and patients' satisfaction with nursing care

Nurses' self-reported levels of empathy were studied in relation to patients' perceptions of satisfaction with nursing care received. Data were obtained from a volunteer sample of registered nurses and patients using two standardized, paper and pencil questionnaires: Empathy Construct Rating Scale and LaMonica/Oberst Patient Satisfaction Scale. No significant relationship was manifested between the variables under study. It was concluded that empathy training programs for nurses may not be necessary. In addition, although patients are generally satisfied with nursing care received in acute care settings, the data do not support a relationship between nurses' empathy levels and patients' satisfaction. Suggestions for further study are offered.