BMUS Wellbeing Resources: Second Victim Phenomenon
20th Jul 2026
The world of Ultrasound imaging and diagnostics is full of complexities that sonographers, radiologists, and healthcare professionals are constantly navigating.
At BMUS, we are aware of these challenges and are proud to provide a series of easy-to-watch member-only lectures entitled “Second Victim Phenomenon in Sonography” to explore their causes and solutions.
The lecture series explores why sonographers may be particularly vulnerable, considering the complexity of ultrasound imaging, real-time clinical decision-making, workload pressures, emotional labour, patient expectations and the inherent limitations of ultrasound.
The series also examines how diagnostic errors arise within complex healthcare systems, highlighting the role of human factors, cognitive processes and workplace environments.
|
Dr Elaine Gardiner, Glasgow Caledonian University |
Who is teaching you?Dr Elaine Gardiner, Programme Lead for the MSc Medical Ultrasound programme at Glasgow Caledonian University, developed the series specifically for BMUS to provide practical and evidence-based insight into an often overlooked aspect of ultrasound practice. Dr Gardiner aims to help practitioners better understand and support themselves and their colleagues following adverse events. Dr Gardiner draws on her clinical, educational and research experience in diagnostic error, sonographer wellbeing and second victim experiences to consider how these experiences can affect confidence, wellbeing, professional identity and ongoing clinical practice, while emphasising the importance of supportive, learning-focused cultures. Using evidence from healthcare research and a realistic clinical case scenario, learners are encouraged to reflect on the personal and professional impact of adverse events. |
Why you should watch this series
This series is designed for sonographers, radiologists and other healthcare professionals to examine the emotional, psychological and professional impact that diagnostic uncertainty, adverse outcomes and diagnostic errors can have on practitioners, while highlighting the importance of supportive cultures, reflective practice and patient safety.
This series forms part of a wider collection of wellbeing material designed for sonographers and other healthcare professionals in ultrasound to provide information and resources for those interested in the physical and mental wellbeing of ultrasound professionals.
How can you watch the series?
Click the link below entitled “Second Victim Phenomenon in Sonography” to be taken straight to the page to watch the lectures.
You will be prompted to enter your BMUS membership information to access the lectures.
The page features 5 easy-to-follow lectures ranging from 10-18 minutes, which can be watched at any point in your day.
You will also find additional resources that complement the lectures by providing practical tools and guidance for departments, managers and clinical leaders looking to implement supportive approaches within their own services.
Second Victim Phenomenon in Sonography
We care about our community, and we are here to provide you pratical-evidenced based steps that help you better understand and support yourself and your colleagues following adverse events.