Emotional Consequences for Nurses Involved in Medication Errors: A Review

Abstract

Background: Medication errors are among the most common adverse events in healthcare, posing serious threats not only to patient safety but also to the emotional well-being of the nurses involved. Often overlooked, the psychological impact on nurses—referred to as "second victims"—can be profound and long-lasting, affecting their personal and professional lives. Objectives: This review aims to explore the emotional and psychological consequences experienced by nurses following involvement in medication errors. It further seeks to identify contributing factors, coping strategies, and support systems available to affected nurses. Methodology: A narrative review of literature was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies published between 2013 and 2024 were reviewed using search terms such as “medication errors,” “nurses,” “emotional impact,” and “second victim.” Articles focusing on nurses' emotional experiences post-error were included, while those focusing solely on patient outcomes or other healthcare professionals were excluded. Results: The review revealed that nurses involved in medication errors commonly experience guilt, shame, anxiety, depression, and a loss of professional confidence. Several factors—such as punitive organizational culture, lack of psychological support, and fear of legal consequences—intensify these emotional outcomes. The findings underscore the need for systemic interventions including peer support programs, access to counseling services, and the promotion of a non-punitive, learning-focused environment to help nurses recover emotionally and continue delivering safe care.