Pharmacy prevalence of second victim syndrome in a comprehensive cancer center

The results of a survey to determine the pharmacy prevalence of second victim syndrome (SVS) at a comprehensive cancer center are presented.

The division of pharmacy was surveyed using a 47-item online Qualtrics-platform questionnaire to help determine the prevalence of SVS. The questionnaire included demographic questions, questions about self-perceived SVS, and the validated Second Victim Experience and Support Tool (SVEST). The questionnaire was distributed electronically through senior leadership.

The response rate was 95%, with self-perceived SVS reported in 37% of all respondents. Overall, 53% of pharmacists and 15% of pharmacy technicians reported having experienced SVS in their lifetime. Self-perceived time needed to recover from the most pronounced event was either less than a week or less than a month for 60% of respondents, with 10% never fully recovering. The SVEST score, which helped assess SVS impact, was neutral with a mean (SD) of 2.79 (0.51). The psychological distress and professional self-efficiency dimensions of SVEST each had a mean score of 3.5 or higher, suggesting prevalence of SVS symptoms. The resources most desired to help individuals recover from SVS were a peer support program, a specified peaceful location, time away from the unit, and an employee assistance program.

The pharmacy division at a comprehensive cancer center is experiencing SVS. Programs targeting SVS should be considered for a pharmacy department or division at a comprehensive cancer center to help improve their employees' well-being and job performance. Multiple avenues of support resources are needed to meet everyone's needs.