An investigation into the effects of vicarious trauma experienced by health care workers

Abstract

This study features an examination of the effects of working with traumatised individuals, namely vicarious traumatisation. Predictor variables such as age, career longevity, personal trauma history and workload were correlated with vicarious trauma. Support systems used by nurses were explored. The questionnaire consisted of items of the TSI Belief Scale, demographic characteristics of persons with a personal trauma history, work related aspects and support systems. Participants were 37 nurses (30 female and 7 male) who render a community mental health service in the Cape Metropole. Results of the study indicate that the variables age and career longevity were statistically significantly related to vicarious trauma. There was no relationship between personal trauma history, workload and vicarious trauma. The nurses identified the psychiatrist and psychologist as their main support systems in dealing with vicarious trauma. Recommendations were made to assist the organisation and nurses on how to deal with vicarious trauma.