CPD focus: supporting colleagues through distressing workplace experiences

Emergency departments (EDs) are high-pressure environments in which nurses are routinely exposed to emotionally challenging clinical situations and, at times, physical aggression from patients or the public. In addition, emergency nurses are increasingly required to deliver patient care in suboptimal environments, such as corridors and ambulances, exposing them to moral injury. All of these issues can have a significant impact on nurses' psychological well-being and professional confidence. While organisational systems and leadership structures are essential in addressing such issues, peer support has an important role in how individuals process and recover from distressing work-related situations or incidents. In this article, the author suggests some practical ways in which nurses can recognise and support colleagues experiencing work-related distress. The author provides some case-based discussions to illustrate the issues discussed, alongside guidance on compassionate communication, professional boundaries and appropriate escalation.