SUPPORT IN CRISIS : Ensuring Well-Being for the Second Victim in Adverse Events

Samuel Tsan, Ern Hung and Yong, Chow Yen (2024) SUPPORT IN CRISIS : Ensuring Well-Being for the Second Victim in Adverse Events. [Magazine and Newsletter]

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Abstract

The term ‘second victim’ was first coined in 2000 to refer to doctors involved in medical errors. It refers to the psychological distress and myriad of challenges that doctors face after being involved in adverse events or safety incidents. The world of medicine may be unforgiving when an error occurs. Doctors involved often face the judgmental eyes of the public, amplification of errors by mass media and receive silent treatment or criticism by their own fraternity. Although patients are the first victims of medical misadventures, healthcare workers involved are wounded by the same errors. Healthcare professionals at all levels are potential second victims in these situations. The level of emotional injury becomes exponential in the event of medicolegal suits or disciplinary hearings.

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