Evaluating the Impact of Improvements in a System-Wide Peer Support Program for Pediatric Critical Care Providers

Abstract Health care providers are at risk of emotional distress and Second Victim Syndrome (SVS). We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of improvements in a system-wide peer support program in reducing emotional distress after an unanticipated adverse event, poor patient outcome, medical error, or patient-related injury. The Second Victim Experience and Support Tool was sent to all intensive care (intensive care unit [ICU]) providers (n = 900) in our health care system. The current survey results were compared with the same survey from 2020. The period between the surveys included increased peer supporters and awareness of peer support programs, rapid deployment of unit-based support, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. The response rate in 2022 increased to 40% (n = 364) from 28% (n = 266) in 2020. Respondents did not differ in age, gender, home unit, role, or years of experience. The number of providers who experienced psychological distress (42% to 33%; p = 0.02) and physical distress (26% to 17%; p = 0.01) decreased between surveys. Significant decreases occurred primarily in nurses and respiratory therapists. Consideration of turnover increased from 25% to 33% (p = 0.01). Desired support did not change between survey periods with “the ability to take time away” (74% and 73%), “a peaceful location to recover” (64% and 70%), and “a respected peer to discuss the details of what happened” (83% and 78%) being most desired. We demonstrate results consistent with the positive impact of a peer support program on staff and provider emotional distress and SVS in our pediatric health care system. A multidisciplinary peer support program is crucial to staff well-being and resilience in high-stress ICU and inpatient environments.