What weighs most is what we do not say

Area of Science:

• Medical safety
• Healthcare management
• Endoscopy practices

Background:

• Second-victim support programs are not widely implemented in Spanish endoscopy units.
• Existing collegiality and goodwill lack formal, measurable structures.
• Identifiable and systematic programs for second victims are uncommon.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the lack of formally established second-victim support programs in Spanish endoscopy units.
• To emphasize the need for recognizing and sharing existing initiatives.
• To frame second-victim support as essential for patient safety and talent retention.

Main Methods:

• This study is based on the current knowledge and reporting of existing practices.
• It involves a review of the implementation status of support programs.
• The focus is on identifying the absence of systematic evaluation.

Main Results:

• Formally established and systematically evaluated second-victim support programs are not widely implemented or reported in Spanish endoscopy units.
• While collegiality exists, identifiable and measurable programs are uncommon.
• There is a gap in structured support for healthcare professionals after adverse events.

Conclusions:

• Recognizing and sharing existing initiatives is an essential first step.
• Second-victim support should be viewed as critical for patient safety, not just 'soft psychology'.
• Implementing robust support systems is vital for talent retention and professional well-being in medicine.