Second victim phenomenon in a surgical area: online survey

Abstract

Background and aim of study: An effective and accessible first source of support for second victims (SV) is usually the colleagues themselves, who should have tools to help emotionally and detect the unusual course of a SV. The aim of this work is to assess health professionals' perception of the phenomenon, as well as their capability to apply psychological first aid.

Material and methods: Observational descriptive study through online surveys answered anonymously. Participants were different health professionals from surgical area, mainly from a third-level hospital.

Results: 329 responses, 67 anaesthesiologists, 110 anaesthesiologists in training, 152 nurses. 78.4% had felt SV, more frequent among anaesthesiologists; however, 58% had never heard of the term. Guilt was the most frequent emotion. Residents were more afraid of judgmental colleagues and thought more about drop out their training. From those who sought help, most did it through a colleague, but most did not feel useful in helping a SV. 66% affirmed there is a still punitive, evasive or silent culture about medical incidents.

Conclusions: Despite the frequency of the phenomenon there is still lack of knowledge of the term SV. Impact of the phenomenon is heterogenous and changes based on experience and responsibility. Colleagues are the first source of emotional help but there is a lack of tools to be able to provide it. Institutions are urged to create training programs so that professionals can guarantee «psychological first aid».

Keywords: Incidente médico; Medical incident; Patient safety; Primeros auxilios psicológicos; Psychological first aid; Second victim; Segunda víctima; Seguridad del paciente.