Tokatlioglu, Tgba SahinGuner, Perihan2026-04-042026-04-0420260882-5963https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2025.11.015https://hdl.handle.net/11411/10470Background: Pediatric oncology/hematology nurses frequently witness the suffering and death of children, placing them at high risk for secondary traumatic stress. Self-compassion has emerged as a protective factor against psychological distress in healthcare professionals. Methods: This descriptive correlational study included 115 nurses in pediatric oncology/hematology units at six hospitals in three major cities. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Self-Compassion Scale, and the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive and multiple inferential statistical methods. Results: Nurses reported moderate levels of secondary traumatic stress and self-compassion. A significant negative correlation was found between the total self-compassion scale and secondary traumatic stress scale scores (r = -0.46, indicating a moderate negative correlation, p < 0.01). Subscales of self-kindness, mindfulness, and common humanity were negatively associated with secondary traumatic stress. At the same time, self-judgment and isolation were positively correlated. Multiple regression analysis showed that self-compassion explained a significant portion of variance in secondary traumatic stress scores (R-2 = 0.31, indicating that 31 % of the variance was explained, p < 0.001). Discussion: The findings suggest that higher self-compassion, particularly self-kindness and mindfulness, may buffer nurses against the adverse effects of secondary trauma. Conversely, self-critical attitudes may heighten vulnerability. These results highlight pediatric oncology nurses' emotional burden and underscore the importance of psychological support. Conclusion: Promoting self-compassion may help reduce secondary traumatic stress and improve well-being among pediatric oncology/hematology nurses. Interventions focused on self-compassion training could serve as a sustainable strategy to support nurses' mental health and care quality. (c) 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessPediatric Oncology NursingSecondary Traumatic StressSelf-CompassionNursing CareArticle2-s2.0-10502202237610.1016/j.pedn.2025.11.01510.1016/j.pedn.2025.11.01519841252766Q119186Q1WOS:001622510700001