Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

After experiencing stress from a resuscitation event where a pediatric patient did not survive, what is the recommended action to cope with the stress?

1. Ignore the feelings and move on

2. Seek support from peers or a counselor

3. Talk to the family about your feelings

4. Confront the team leader about the event

The correct answer is: Seek support from peers or a counselor

In the context of coping with stress following a challenging resuscitation event, seeking support from peers or a counselor is a crucial step. Engaging with others who understand the pressures of medical emergencies can provide a sense of solidarity and comfort. It allows individuals to process their feelings in a safe environment, discussing the emotional impact of the situation, which is an essential part of managing stress and preventing burnout. Counselors, especially those trained in trauma or crisis management, can offer professional guidance, coping strategies, and techniques to manage anxiety, guilt, or grief that may arise from such stressful experiences. This supportive approach promotes mental well-being and helps healthcare professionals better manage the emotional toll of their work. In contrast, ignoring feelings may lead to prolonged emotional distress and adverse effects on one’s mental health. Talking to the family about personal feelings could place undue burden on them during their time of loss, and confronting a team leader might escalate tensions rather than foster healing. Seeking support from peers or a counselor provides a balanced and constructive means to cope with the aftermath of a stressful resuscitation experience.