A Literature Review and Narrative Synthesis of Vicarious Trauma Findings Among Nurses Working in Addiction Services.

Abstract

Background: Vicarious trauma (VT) can have major negative consequences for those working with patients who have experienced trauma. The topic has been investigated for over three decades, and yet, the role of VT among nurses working in addiction services remains underresearched.

Aim: The aims of this study were to identify what is known and to report on the gaps in the literature on VT among nurses working in addiction services.

Methods: Using a systematic approach, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, and articles published between 1990 and 2019, a review of the international literature was conducted using databases CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, and Global Index Medicus (WHO). Keywords and relevant controlled vocabulary terms related to VT and nurses were included. A narrative synthesis of key findings from the selected articles was prepared.

Results: The initial search yielded 721 articles, and after removing duplicates, 588 articles were screened, identifying 33 potentially relevant full-text articles, but 20 were excluded based on specific criteria, leaving 13 articles eligible for review. Common themes within the literature were as follows: (a) VT has negative implications, (b) there is no reliable tool to measure VT within the nursing profession, (c) common risk factors, (d) common coping mechanisms, (e) importance of organizational leadership's role, (f) negative and positive consequences, and (g) paucity of studies.

Conclusions: The results of this review indicate a compelling requirement for increasing awareness and establishing a dependable method of measuring VT among those members of the nursing profession working in addiction services. Enhancing educational initiatives and facilitating the exchange of effective coping strategies are crucial in preventing burnout and the erosion of expertise among addiction nursing professionals. Both educational and practice-based leadership play integral roles in advancing these findings, not only for the well-being of nurses but also for the individuals experiencing trauma who are under their care.