Recovery from work-related trauma by perioperative nurses: the effects of social and personal resources

The complexities of the recovery process following a traumatic event suggest a need to provide support resources that sustain or promote positive perceptions of the events. The availability and effectiveness of social support is a function of both its content and its capability of responding appropriately to the influence of the recovery dynamics in a contingent manner. Further, the quality of recovery from work-related trauma is suggested to be a function of the interactive processes of the individuals, the organisational environment they work in, and the social support provided. Using methodological triangulaton, 213 nurses working in rural and metropolitan operating suites were surveyed to assess the types, amount and effectiveness of social and personal resources that were used following exposure to traumatic work experiences. The findings demonstrate the significance of personal and social support resources in assisting perioperative nurses to recover from traumatic experiences. A personal sense of coherence and emotional support received through disclosure to work colleagues and supervisors were the most salutary aspects of support following trauma. The results suggest that opportunities should be made available through peer support programs, educational programs and professional meetings to better prepare nurses for traumatic situations and their aftermath. Furthermore, the work organisation needs to be educated in the need for and process of creating sanctuary and providing a holistic approach to management. This will then allow individuals, such as perioperative nurses, to continue to function at an acceptable level during the mitigation of the traumatic incident.