The Symptoms and Impacts Experienced by Healthcare Professionals as Second Victims After a Safety Incident: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

This study aimed to describe the types of psychological and physical symptoms experienced by healthcare professionals who became second victims after a patient safety incident and the impact of the incident on their social and professional lives.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

JBI methodology for scoping reviews and PRISMA-ScR for reporting were followed.

Data Sources

The search was conducted on June 13, 2024, using the CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus, PubMed (Medline), Medic and PsycInfo (EBSCO) databases. A grey literature search was also conducted.

Results

A total of 96 papers were included. Healthcare professionals experienced psychological symptoms such as anger, sadness and guilt after a safety incident. Physical symptoms were reported, including symptoms related to sleep and gastrointestinal symptoms. At the professional and social levels, the incident affected their work, relationships and well-being. Positive impacts were also noted.

Conclusions

This study provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare professionals' experiences after safety incidents. In addition, this study also captured the positive impacts of safety incidents, such as learning from mistakes.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

By recognising the symptoms and impacts associated with the second victim syndrome, appropriate support can be provided for healthcare professionals.

Impact

The findings of this study can be used to identify the relevant harm to professionals after a safety incident, which could help to improve the well-being of these workers.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Protocol Registration

Open Science Framework, https://archive.org/details/osf-registrations-5cdmu-v1