The impact of adverse patient events among German anesthesiologists

BackgroundAdverse patient events are an inevitable part of an anesthesiologist's work. When such incidents occur, they may lead to significant emotional and psychological distress in healthcare providers-a phenomenon known as the Second Victim Phenomenon (SVP). While international evidence of SVP exists, data from German anesthesiologists remain scarce.ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the prevalence, symptom severity, recovery time, and available support structures for second victims among German anesthesiologists and to identify individual and workplace-related risk and protective factors.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted using the validated SeViD questionnaire. The survey assessed five domains: demographics, SVP experience and symptoms, support structures, and personality traits (Big Five Inventory-10). Data were collected both online and on paper at three national anesthesiology symposia in Germany.ResultsOf the 408 respondents (mean age: 50.8 years), 76.9% identified as second victims, with 27% having experienced a related incident in the previous 12 months. Common triggers included patient harm or death, near misses, and critical events. The most frequently reported symptoms were self-doubt (69%), feelings of guilt (66%), reliving the event (59%), and sleep disturbances (59%). 16% of the respondents had not recovered at the time of the survey, and 14% had not recovered even after more than a year. Legal consultation, debriefing, and preventive feedback mechanisms were rated as the most helpful support strategies. A lack of support was significantly associated with increased symptom burden and prolonged recovery. A higher level of neuroticism and a lower level of openness were associated with increased symptom load.ConclusionsSVP is highly prevalent among German anesthesiologists, with a significant psychological burden in many cases. These findings highlight the urgent need for systematic interventions, including peer support and organizational frameworks, to address and mitigate the effects of SVP in clinical practice.