Abstract:
Personal resilience, a multifaceted concept encompassing determination, endurance, adaptability, and
recuperability, is crucial for healthcare workers who frequently encounter high-stress and traumatic
events. Resilience enables individuals to not only endure but also thrive in adversity, protecting against
burnout and fostering psychological well-being. This study investigates the level of personal resilience
among healthcare workers at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital (KCRH) in Kirinyaga County, Kenya,
focusing on vicarious trauma and its effects. A descriptive research design was employed, involving a
sample of 149 healthcare workers at KCRH. Data was collected using the Adult Personal Resilience
Questionnaire (APRQ). There was moderate vicarious trauma levels (score of 33.3) and substantial
resilience across four dimensions: determination (4.42), endurance (4.18), adaptability (4.06), and
recuperability (3.93). Healthcare workers at KCRH exhibited substantial resilience across all dimensions,
with determination and endurance scoring the highest. Thus, despite facing significant challenges,
including high stress levels and exposure to traumatic events, the workers demonstrated strong
determination, perseverance, adaptability, and ability to recover from setbacks. However, the moderate
level of vicarious trauma highlights the need for targeted support and interventions to mitigate its impact.
These findings underscore the importance of personal resilience in helping healthcare workers manage the
demands of their profession. High resilience levels suggest that these workers possess the capacity to
navigate adversities effectively, but the presence of moderate vicarious trauma indicates a need for
enhanced support systems. There is need for Hospital administrators and policymakers to prioritize
initiatives aimed at building resilience among healthcare workers. This can include implementing tailored
training programs, providing robust mental health support, and fostering a supportive work environment.
Further research is recommended to explore specific strategies and interventions that can effectively
enhance resilience and well-being in diverse healthcare settings.
