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Published on: February 16, 2011
The emotional impact of malpractice
Kristin Larson1, Rowena Elliott
1University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA. kristin.larson@comcast.net
Summary
Nurses sued for malpractice often underestimate the emotional toll. This study explores a nurse's experience and survival strategies during a malpractice lawsuit.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Legal Medicine
- Psychology
Background:
- Nurses are infrequently named as defendants in malpractice lawsuits.
- The emotional impact of being a defendant is often underestimated by nurses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experience of a nurse defendant in a malpractice lawsuit.
- To identify strategies for emotional and professional survival for nurses facing malpractice litigation.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative exploration of a nurse's personal experience.
- Analysis of coping and survival strategies employed.
Main Results:
- Being named a defendant in a malpractice suit has a significant emotional impact.
- Nurses utilize various strategies to cope and survive the legal process.
Conclusions:
- The emotional and professional ramifications of malpractice suits for nurses require acknowledgment.
- Developing support systems and coping mechanisms is crucial for nurse defendants.
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