Exploring second victim syndrome among surgeons at the University of Toronto and assessing the need for peer support.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Second victim syndrome (SVS) is a term encompassing the psychological changes experienced by health care providers after an adverse event, and it is believed that nearly all surgeons experience SVS. We sought to explore SVS experiences of surgeons at our institution and assess the need for a peer support program.

Methods

We distributed a web-based questionnaire to staff surgeons at the University of Toronto, which covered demographics, the validated Second Victim Experience and Support Tool (SVEST), and interest in a peer support program. We performed quantitative assessment to determine at-risk demographics for SVS.

Results

We surveyed 120 participants. Scores on the SVEST were highest in the psychological distress and institutional support domains. There

SUBMITTER: Vernon J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12705196 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature