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Effects of a Second Victim Peer Support Program in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Amy E Davis1, Donna J Copeland-Streeter, Rosanna R Okoye
1Amy E. Davis is an assistant professor and Donna J. Copeland-Streeter is an associate professor at the University of South Alabama College of Nursing, Mobile. Rosanna R. Okoye is an assistant professor at Nightingale College, Salt Lake City, UT. The authors acknowledge Susan D. Scott, PhD, RN, CPPS, FAAN, a national expert in second victim research, for her expertise and guidance in the development of this project. Contact author: Donna J. Copeland-Streeter, dcopeland@southalabama.edu. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Nurses experiencing distress after patient events, known as second victim syndrome, found significant relief through a peer support program. This initiative highlights the importance of support systems for healthcare professionals
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Healthcare Quality Improvement
- Psychological Support
Background:
- Nurses can experience significant distress after traumatic patient events, a phenomenon termed second victim syndrome.
- Effective support systems are crucial for nurse resilience and mitigating second victim syndrome symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To decrease distress levels in nurses experiencing second victim syndrome following stressful patient-related events.
- Pilot project implemented in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) due to increased risk.
Main Methods:
- Academic-practice partnership established a need for emotional support services in the PICU.
- A structured, three-tiered comprehensive support program was implemented, including a peer support team.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant reduction in distress levels was observed in participants (N=13) after engaging with the peer support team.
- Pre- and post-encounter distress scale measurements showed a significant decrease (t12 = 16.40, P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Nurse leaders play a key role in developing support programs to enhance nurse well-being.
- These programs are vital for mitigating the adverse effects of second victim syndrome.
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