Second victim syndrome: bridging compassion and healing in healthcare

Authors

Abstract

In the intricate healthcare landscape, where compassion merges with complex medical decisions and procedures, second victim syndrome may lurk unnoticed and unaddressed.1 The psychological distress and emotional turmoil experienced by healthcare professionals after being involved in adverse patient events and near-misses remain largely silent, haunting healthcare professionals and leaving them vulnerable to subsequent health issues.2 This editorial delves into this second victim syndrome, shedding light on its profound impact, particularly in the context of medical malpractice and litigation, and exploring the potential of mindfulness in nurturing healing and resilience.

Author Biography

K Outhoff, University of Pretoria

Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, South Africa

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Published

2024-07-02

Issue

Section

Editorial