Impacts of Trauma-Informed Approaches on Healthcare Workers: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND: It is well known that healthcare workers experience poor outcomes associated with workplace stress and secondary trauma from on-the-job events. In order to respond, healthcare systems must evolve. Yet it is unknown how trauma-informed approaches (TIAs) may effectively address system-level factors within healthcare settings. The aim of this study was to: (1) map out the existing knowledge about TIAs integrated within healthcare organizations and (2) map out the reported health impact of TIA integration on healthcare workers. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted using Fink's five-step approach for systematic reviews, with scoping review modifications based on Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. RESULTS: A total of 6,162 participants from 17 articles published between 2018 and 2024 were included in the retained sample. Key findings indicate: (1) TIA support for healthcare workers is insufficient, necessitating systemic organizational change led by effective leadership, and; (2) TIA integration may protect healthcare workers from trauma and burnout, fostering resilience and well-being. CONCLUSION: TIAs within healthcare were associated with well-being among healthcare workers. Leadership plays an integral role in establishing trauma-informed organizational climates. Further work must be conducted with a large sample of healthcare workers to explore the perceived impact of trauma-informed system-level efforts aimed at promoting hospital staff's well-being.