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Caring for Caregivers Experiencing Secondary Trauma: A Call to Action
Heather C Forkey1,2, Elaine Schulte3, Luanne Thorndyke1
1UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
Clinical Pediatrics
|December 2, 2022
Summary
Secondary traumatic stress (STS) is an emotional response to indirect trauma exposure. Recognizing STS as a normal stress reaction in healthcare professionals can guide effective support strategies among colleagues and within healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Occupational Health
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Secondary traumatic stress (STS) arises from indirect exposure to others' trauma.
- Healthcare professionals are highly vulnerable to STS due to frequent exposure to distressing clinical situations.
- Empathy, crucial for patient care, can heighten susceptibility to STS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define secondary traumatic stress (STS) and its impact on healthcare providers.
- To frame STS as a normal stress response, not a pathology.
- To identify potential avenues for addressing STS within healthcare environments.
Main Methods:
- This study is a conceptual analysis and literature review.
- It synthesizes existing research on STS in healthcare.
- It explores the nature of STS as a stress response.
Main Results:
- STS is an understandable reaction to the emotional demands of healthcare.
- Viewing STS as normal facilitates symptom recognition and management.
- Support systems involving colleagues and workplace settings are key.
Conclusions:
- Understanding STS as a normal response aids in its management.
- Healthcare settings offer opportunities for peer support and intervention.
- Effective access to support can mitigate the adverse effects of STS on providers.
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