Ep. 184 Coping with Surgical Complications During Residency with Dr. Chloe Peters

Beyond patient morbidity, complications can have a significant impact on surgeon health and relationships outside of medicine. In this episode of the PGY Pearls Series of BackTable Urology, hosts Dr. Lindsay Hampson (UCSF) and Dr. Gina Badalato (Columbia University) discuss the “second victim phenomenon” with special guest Dr. Chloe Peters, a fifth-year urology resident at the University of Washington. --- SYNPOSIS The “second victim phenomenon” refers to the negative emotional response a healthcare worker endures after a traumatic patient care event. The conversation explores the psychological impacts of surgical complications as Dr. Peters describes the phases of coping. She emphasizes the need to distinguish between personal failure and professional setbacks and highlights the importance of peer and institutional support. The discussion also delves into recent cultural shifts in medicine, especially in the wake of COVID-19. The experts conclude by discussing steps for progress and improvement within the surgical work environment. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Second Victim Phenomenon 06:52 - Challenges for Trainees 09:43 - Managing Complications 17:04 - Phases of Emotions 20:31 - Peer Support and Institutional Resources 35:04 - Building a Supportive Training Environment --- RESOURCES Pearson Ravitz https://pearsonravitz.com/ BackTable URO24- Operate with Zen https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/24/operate-with-zen BackTable URO39- The Anatomy of a Complication https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/39/the-anatomy-of-a-complication-surgeon-health BackTable URO42- Mental Constructs to Avoid Complications https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/42/mental-constructs-to-avoid-complications