An Examination of Vicarious Trauma Among Trauma Clinicians: A Mixed Methods Study

Vicarious trauma results from repeated exposure to the emotional or physical suffering of others and is considered an occupational hazard for those in caring professions. It can negatively impact clinicians' personal and professional lives and the quality of patient care. However, research specifically examining vicarious trauma among trauma clinicians remains limited.

This study aims to examine vicarious trauma experienced by trauma clinicians providing direct care to trauma patients.

This is an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study involving trauma clinicians over a period of 5 months (May-October 2024) at a Level I trauma center in West Virginia. Quantitative data were collected through an electronic survey using Vicarious Trauma Scale items, followed by qualitative data from individual interviews.

A total of 76 clinicians completed the survey, with nurses comprising the majority of participants, followed by attending physicians, resident physicians, and nurse practitioners. On average, trauma clinicians reported strong agreement with "exposure to distressing materials and experiences" [6.38 (1.08)] and "exposure to traumatized or distressed clients" [6.70 (0.78)]. Vicarious trauma appeared more pronounced among nurses compared to other clinical roles. Awareness and utilization of organizational well-being interventions were limited due to the added burden of responsibilities and fear of judgment.

Vicarious trauma was found to be evident among trauma clinicians, which could be consequential both professionally and personally. Health care organizations and trauma leadership need to consider the risk of vicarious trauma among trauma clinicians and proactively safeguard clinicians to mitigate its impact.