The European Researchers’ Network Working on Second Victim (ERNST) Policy Statement on the Second Victim Phenomenon for Increasing Patient Safety

Autor: Jose Mira, Irene Carillo, Susanna Tella, Kris Vanhaecht, Massimiliano Panella, Deborah Seys, Marius-Ionut Ungureanu, Paulo Sousa, Sandra C. Buttigieg, Patricia Vella-Bonanno, Georgeta Popovici, Einav Srulovici, Sofia Guerra-Paiva, Bojana Knezevic, Susana Lorenzo, Peter Lachman, Shin Ushiro, Susan D. Scott, Albert Wu, Reinhard Strametz
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2024
Předmět:
Zdroj: Public Health Reviews, Vol 45 (2024)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2107-6952
DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2024.1607175
Popis: BackgroundThe second victim phenomenon refers to the emotional trauma healthcare professionals experience following adverse events (AEs) in patient care, which can compromise their ability to provide safe care. This issue has significant implications for patient safety, with AEs leading to substantial human and economic costs.AnalysisCurrent evidence indicates that AEs often result from systemic failures, profoundly affecting healthcare workers. While patient safety initiatives are in place, the psychological impact on healthcare professionals remains inadequately addressed. The European Researchers’ Network Working on Second Victims (ERNST) emphasizes the need to support these professionals through peer support programs, systemic changes, and a shift toward a just culture in healthcare settings.Policy OptionsKey options include implementing peer support programs, revising the legal framework to decriminalize honest errors, and promoting just culture principles. These initiatives aim to mitigate the second victim phenomenon, enhance patient safety, and reduce healthcare costs.ConclusionAddressing the second victim phenomenon is essential for ensuring patient safety. By implementing supportive policies and fostering a just culture, healthcare systems can better manage the repercussions of AEs and support the wellbeing of healthcare professionals.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals