Work

Vicarious Resilience in Hospital Nurses: A Concept Analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Vicarious resilience is a positive psychological transformation in hospital nurses who witness the recovery and strength of patients. This study clarifies the concept using Walker and Avant’s method, identifying defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences to inform theory and practice. Methods: A systematic review of Korean and international databases included 21 studies. Through eight analytical steps, four defining attributes were identified: emotional growth, meaning-making, patient-centered engagement, and professional identity reinforcement. Results: Key antecedents include empathic exposure and reflective capacity. Consequences are enhanced resilience, reduced burnout, increased job satisfaction, and sustainable caregiving. Unlike compassion satisfaction, post-traumatic growth, or vicarious post-traumatic growth, vicarious resilience stems from relational experiences of patient recovery. The Vicarious Resilience Scale was reviewed, but a hospital nurse-specific measure is needed. Conclusions: This analysis offers a foundation for nursing education, organizational support, and interventions to foster emotional sustainability and professional growth in high-stress clinical settings.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13182279

Author: Miri Jeong

Institution: Joongbu University

Language: English

Topic: Resilience and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258