Second-victim experience and support among nurses in mainland China

To investigate the experience and support of nurses as second victims in adverse events and explore factors.

Adverse events have significant negative influences on healthcare professionals. However, there is still a lack of research on the impacts of individual and event factors.

A cross-sectional survey via a self-report electronic questionnaire was sent to approximately 6400 nurses from six tertiary comprehensive hospitals in mainland China. The socio-demographic, adverse event-related information and second-victim experience and support questionnaires were used.

Approximately 2897 (45.26%) of nurses were involved in at least one adverse event that mainly caused psychological distress. Male nurses, Grade I adverse events, public reports and discussions of adverse events were related to the second-victim reaction. Discussing with a respected colleague was the most strongly desired form of support.

Chinese nurses have reported a high prevalence of psychological reactions. Follow-up studies must consider other potential factors.

Nursing managers should consider the factors that affect second victims and provide support based on the expectations of nurses. Psychological first-aid and immediate and mid- to long-term support strategies should be provided to help the second victim alleviate distress.