Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Infusion therapy-related adverse events can result in distress and professional suffering for the nurse involved with the event, with long-lasting consequences. This article discusses the second victim syndrome and its impacts on nurses. Original research on 168 recent nursing graduates and their experiences with second victim syndrome after making an infusion-related error is also presented. The article concludes with strategies to help nurses cope with the aftermath of making an infusion therapy-related medication error.

ABSTRACT Background: The purpose of this study was to better understand individual- and system-level factors surrounding making a medication error from the perspective of recent Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates. Method: Online survey mixed-methods items included perceptions of adequacy of preparatory nursing education, contributory variables, emotional responses, and treatment by employer following the error. Results: Of the 168 respondents, 55% had made a medication error. Errors resulted from inexperience, rushing, technology, staffing, and patient acuity. Twenty-four percent did not report their errors. Key themes for improving education included more practice in varied clinical areas, intensive pharmacological preparation, practical instruction …