Implementation of a "second victim" program in a pediatric hospital

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Support Systems
• Occupational Health
• Pharmacy Practice

Background:

• Healthcare workers are recognized as "second victims" following patient care errors, experiencing significant emotional distress and career uncertainty.
• A survey revealed approximately 30% of staff in a hospital pharmacy department had been involved in a "second victim" event.
• The need for a structured support system for healthcare professionals facing work-related trauma is evident.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and impact of a formal support program for pharmacy employees experiencing adverse drug events and other traumatic work incidents.
• To introduce the "YOU Matter" program, a peer-based initiative designed to support "second victims" within a hospital pharmacy setting.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a three-tiered intervention model for "second victim" support.
• Training all staff to identify individuals affected by traumatic work events.
• Establishing a core team of trained peer supporters as first responders.
• Utilizing a web-based portal for event reporting and peer support.
• Referral pathways to behavioral health, social work, and employee assistance programs for escalated needs.

Main Results:

• The peer support team expanded significantly from 13 to over 120 members.
• A post-implementation survey indicated that 85% of pharmacy staff found the "YOU Matter" program beneficial.
• Within five months, 3 staff members personally utilized the program, and 11 referred colleagues to peer supporters.

Conclusions:

• The "YOU Matter" program was perceived as beneficial by the majority of the pharmacy staff.
• The peer-based support initiative effectively addresses the needs of "second victims" in a hospital pharmacy setting.
• The program demonstrates a successful model for supporting healthcare workers after critical incidents.