The second victim experience and support tool: a cross-cultural adaptation, validation and psychometric evaluation of the Serbian version for pharmacy professionals (SR-SVEST-R).

Abstract

Background: The second victim phenomenon, involving emotional and psychological distress after adverse events, is underexplored among pharmacy professionals. The validated Second Victim Experience and Support Tool measures these experiences and support options, with the improved version also assessing resilience.

Aim: This study aimed to validate the Second Victim Experience and Support Tool-Revised, measure the second victim phenomenon, and present results among pharmacy professionals in Serbia.

Method: This cross-sectional study included 350 pharmacy professionals (MPharm and technicians). The questionnaire, with 9 factors and 35 statements, was translated and adapted following guidelines, and the content was validated by five experts. A pre-test with 30 participants ensured clarity, followed by Confirmatory Factor Analysis for construct validity and Cronbach's Alpha for reliability.

Results: Content validity was confirmed with item scores from 0.8 to 1 and a mean scale score of 0.83. Factor analysis identified 9 factors and 30 items (Chi-square = 545.6, degrees of freedom = 366, p < 0.001). The model fit was supported by a Root Mean Square Error of Approximation of 0.037, a Comparative Fit Index of 0.958, a Tucker-Lewis Index of 0.950, and a Standardised Root Mean Square Residual of 0.040. Reliability analysis showed a Cronbach's alpha of 0.88, with factor values from 0.60 to 0.90. Among participants, 49.5% feared future events, 47.4% felt exhausted, 22.6% considered quitting, 72.6% valued peer support, and 28.9% improved work quality.

Conclusion: The Serbian resilience measuring tool is valid and reliable, effectively evaluating second victim experiences and support, with half of pharmacy professionals affected.