Vicarious Trauma in Burns: Prevalence, Impact, and Management Strategies in Australian Healthcare


Wiktor Pilch1, Andrew Castley1,
1Tasmanian Burns Unit, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

Abstract

Vicarious trauma is a significant occupational hazard for healthcare providers who care for burn patients. The emotional toll of witnessing patients’ suffering and trauma can lead to negative psychological consequences and burnout therefore compromising the quality of care provided.
This presentation aims to provide an overview of the prevalence and impact of vicarious trauma among healthcare providers who care for burn patients in Australia, including both adult and paediatric populations. It also explores strategies for mitigating the negative effects of vicarious trauma on healthcare professionals.

A review of literature, national burn statistics, and workforce surveys in Australia reveals that vicarious trauma is a prevalent issue among healthcare providers who care for burn patients. The incidence of vicarious trauma is higher among nurses, social workers, and psychologists, who have prolonged and intimate contact with patients and their families.

Vicarious trauma can manifest in various forms, including emotional exhaustion, intrusive thoughts, and hyper-vigilance. It can impact mental health, personal relationships, and job satisfaction, leading to absenteeism and high turnover rates.

To address the negative impact of vicarious trauma, various management strategies have been proposed, including education and training, self-care practices, debriefing sessions, and peer support programs. These strategies aim to enhance healthcare providers’ resilience, self-awareness, and coping mechanisms. They promote a positive work culture and improve the quality of care provided to patients.

Vicarious trauma is a prevalent issue, understanding the prevalence and impact of vicarious trauma is vital for developing effective strategies to mitigate its negative effects on healthcare professionals. By promoting a culture of self-care, resilience, and peer support, healthcare providers can better manage the emotional demands of caring for burn patients, improving their well-being and the quality of care provided.

Biography

Plastic and Reconstructive Registrar at the Royal Hobart Hospital encompassing the Tasmanian Burns Unit