Fixing the fallout: Debriefing animal care workers after a difficult encounter or adverse event

We know that debriefing after an adverse occurrence is important because it can lower the risk of burn out, compassion fatigue and mental health issues, triggered by the significant stress brought on by negative outcomes. Debriefing within 24-72 hours can be critical in reducing those and build a system of team support.
Adapted from LinkedIn Article: Debriefing Promotes Veterinary Team Wellbeing 

What occurrences should be considered for debriefing?

• An adverse event, such as an unexpected death
• A difficult client interaction, such as mistreatment or bullying
• A critical error
• When compassion fatigue takes over
• When something emergent happens at the workplace site

Steps for debriefing:

• Identify the incident.
• Describe the event to identify safety and security issues. 
• Allow for ventilation of thoughts feelings and emotions.
• Share emotional reactions.
• Review and analyze the incidents impact.
• Bring closure through applying to potential future events.
• Re-enter the workforce.

Where does debriefing occur?

• Debriefing should take place in an emotionally safe environment, where possible.
• Should be accessible to all team members who are seeking to participate.

Who should be included in debriefing?

• Anyone who is part of the team or practice who may benefit from the processing of a difficult event or challenging encounter.

Where does debriefing begin?

• Debriefing should take place as close to the occurrence as possible to allow the presence of those involved and to address immediate emotional responses. This can help to de-intensify the associated feelings by providing a space to voice them.  While it is ideal to have a mental health professional moderating a debriefing session, this is not always possible. In the event this is not feasible, a staff person can moderate and still participate. 

Where else can staff turn to for support?

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• An established mental health provider for the clinic (veterinary social worker) 
• University at Knoxville, Tennessee Veterinary Social Work Program
• 988 Suicide and crisis hotline

The use of debriefing in the aftermath of an event can truly benefit all team members involved. While it can seem like a significant process, once the steps are broken down, the process becomes easily worked through to achieve a more supportive outcome in the aftermath of an adverse occurrence. This means that potential repeated circumstances can be prevented and the long-term effects can be mitigated, thus building a more cohesive ability to care for animals in a practice.