Relief talk among nurses to help recovering after critical incidents

Abstract

Nurses may be exposed not only to daily stressors, but also to extreme, potentially traumatic situations. A first talk with a colleague can help to find relief and to regain emotional stability. This article presents a simple, clearly structured intervention based on spontaneous support offered by colleagues or friends. It can be easily embedded into the nurses' working routine. The proposed talk is developed upon Mitchell/Everly’s defusing-concept (2001) and recurs to new findings concerning coping with trauma and psychological stabilisation on the workplace (Rick et al. 2006; Hausmann 2010). It has been specially adapted for nurses and is part of their trainings in several Austrian hospitals. First experiences with implementing this enhanced social support, as well as necessary frame conditions, are discussed.