Why clinicians involved with adverse events need much better support

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to the problem of second victims involved in adverse events and their need for adequate support. Design/methodology/approach The impact on second victims involved in adverse events and implications for organisational support were determined from previous studies and relevant publications about this problem. Findings The impact of adverse events on health professionals who are involved in them can be profound. These second victims can suffer extreme emotional distress, anxiety regarding perceptions of their competence and professional isolation, and may endure long-term professional and personal consequences. Some of the more severe outcomes include leaving the profession, symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide. Many studies report a substantial lack of organisational support for second victims. Key strategies have been recommended for organisations to implement to support second victims. Originality/value The authors note that recently published studies continue to report that organisational support is inadequate for second victims. Improved mechanisms of support would prevent the loss of second victims from the workforce, and ameliorate the severity and duration of the impact on second victims.