Emotional Preparedness Mediates the Relationship Between Empathy and Depersonalization Among Oncology Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Depersonalization, characterized by emotional detachment and reduced compassion, is a key dimension of burnout that threatens the well-being of nurses and patient care, especially in oncology settings where exposure to suffering is frequent. Empathy typically protects against depersonalization; however, its effect may weaken in emotionally demanding environments. Emotional preparedness, or the psychological readiness of nurses to face distressing situations, may help sustain empathy and prevent depersonalization.Purpose: This study examined whether emotional preparedness mediates the relationship between empathy and depersonalization among oncology nurses in Indonesia.Methods: A cross-sectional survey using convenience sampling was conducted with 116 oncology nurses at Dharmais National Cancer Hospital in Jakarta. Empathy, emotional preparedness, and depersonalization were measured using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE), the Expanded Nursing Stress Scale (ENSS), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and mediation analysis with Hayes’ PROCESS Macro (Model 4).Results: Emotional preparedness and empathy were both negatively correlated with depersonalization (r = −0.28, p < .01; r = −0.54, p < .01, respectively). Empathy significantly predicted depersonalization (β = −0.21, SE = 0.02, p < .001), and mediation testing demonstrated that emotional preparedness fully mediated this relationship (β = −0.08, SE = 0.06, 95% CI [−0.14, −0.02]).Conclusion: Emotional preparedness fully mediates the association between empathy and depersonalization among oncology nurses. Strengthening emotional preparedness through structured training and psychosocial support may help preserve empathy, reduce depersonalization, and enhance both nurse well-being and the quality of patient care.