Efficacy of Vicarious Post-Traumatic Growth Intervention for Nurses in Emergency Units

Efficacy of Vicarious Post-Traumatic Growth Intervention for Nurses in Emergency Units: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of a Vicarious Post-Traumatic Growth (VPTG) Intervention among nurses working in emergency units. Emergency nurses are frequently exposed to traumatic events through patient care, which may contribute to vicarious trauma and psychological distress. The intervention is designed to facilitate positive psychological growth, resilience, adaptive coping, and psychological well-being while reducing the adverse impact of indirect trauma exposure. Participants will be randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up periods to determine the effectiveness of the intervention in promoting vicarious post-traumatic growth and reducing vicarious trauma among emergency nurses.

Emergency nurses regularly encounter critically ill, injured, and dying patients, exposing them to repeated indirect traumatic experiences. Such exposure can lead to vicarious trauma, emotional exhaustion, and psychological distress. However, exposure to trauma may also contribute to positive psychological changes referred to as vicarious post-traumatic growth.

This study evaluates the efficacy of a structured Vicarious Post-Traumatic Growth Intervention developed specifically for nurses working in emergency units. The intervention integrates psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, resilience enhancement strategies, emotional regulation skills, stress management techniques, and peer support activities.

A randomized controlled trial design will be employed. Eligible nurses will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. Participants will complete baseline assessments before intervention implementation. Outcome measures will be reassessed immediately after completion of the intervention and during follow-up assessments.

Primary outcomes include reduction in vicarious trauma and enhancement of vicarious post-traumatic growth. Secondary outcomes include resilience, coping strategies, psychological well-being, and occupational functioning. Findings may contribute to the development of evidence-based psychological support programs for nurses working in high-stress healthcare settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Registered nurses currently employed in emergency departments.
2. Minimum six months of emergency department work experience.
3. Able to read and understand English or Urdu.
4. Willing to provide informed consent.
5. Available to participate throughout intervention and follow-up assessments.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current diagnosis of severe psychiatric disorder requiring intensive treatment.
2. Current participation in trauma-focused psychotherapy.
3. Cognitive impairment affecting study participation.
4. Planned transfer from emergency unit during study period.
5. Refusal to provide informed consent.