Vicarious trauma in nursing: A hybrid concept analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Vicarious trauma significantly impacts nurses' well-being and care quality.
• The concept of vicarious trauma in nursing lacks clear definition and is debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify and define vicarious trauma within the nursing context.

Main Methods:

• Employed Schwartz and Kim's three-stage hybrid concept analysis.
• Conducted a comprehensive literature search across 12 databases.
• Performed participatory observations and semi-structured interviews with 18 nurses.

Main Results:

• Vicarious trauma is defined as psychological impact on nurses' cognitive schemas from empathizing with patient, family, or colleague trauma.
• Experiences can occur in clinical settings or via social media.
• Vicarious trauma can lead to vicarious post-trauma growth, fostering personal and professional development.

Conclusions:

• Vicarious trauma in nursing is a multidimensional and holistic concept.
• This study provides a framework for future research and practice in nursing vicarious trauma.