Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of secondary traumatic stress (STS) in health sciences librarians (HSLs) who have direct contact with traumatized individuals and their families. A twenty-five-item survey and the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS) were distributed via email to three Medical Library Association email discussion lists. A total of fifty-five HSLs responded to the survey. Survey results indicate moderate levels of STS and variability of symptoms among participants. Library and employee assistance program managers should be aware of the emotional toll of patient and/or family contact for HSLs.
Highlights
A total of fifty-five health sciences librarians (HSLs) responded to the survey
Library and employee assistance program managers should be aware of the emotional toll of patient and/or family contact for HSLs
Since Mott’s 1919 description of ‘‘shell shock’’ in returning World War I soldiers, the understanding of the effects of trauma on the mind and body has grown by leaps and bounds [1]
Summary
Since Mott’s 1919 description of ‘‘shell shock’’ in returning World War I soldiers, the understanding of the effects of trauma on the mind and body has grown by leaps and bounds [1]. Violence, or life-altering circumstances, such as the death of a loved one, suffer lasting anguish that presents in a variety of forms. Secondary traumatic stress (STS) is defined as ‘‘the natural, consequent behaviors and emotions resulting from knowledge about a traumatizing event experienced by a significant other. It is the stress resulting from helping or wanting to help a traumatized or suffering person’’ [3]
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