Wk. 10 - PTSD Flashcards

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that results from exposure to trauma, leading to intrusive symptoms, avoidance behaviors, altered arousal, and negative mood or cognitions.

Name three common causes of PTSD.

Military combat, rape, serious accidents, hostage situations, or other life-threatening events.

What are flashbacks in PTSD?

vivid, distressing re-experiences of a traumatic event that feel real and can be accompanied by intense emotions and physical sensations.

How does PTSD affect emotional regulation?

Individuals may experience severe anxiety, emotional numbing, or intense emotional responses such as anger or sadness.

What is dissociation in PTSD?

A symptom where individuals feel detached from themselves or their surroundings, often linked to increased impairment and suicide risk.

Why do individuals with PTSD often avoid certain places or situations?

They engage in avoidance behaviors to prevent distressing memories, flashbacks, or emotional pain triggered by trauma reminders.

What are the four major symptom categories of PTSD?

Intrusive symptoms, avoidance, alterations in arousal and reactivity, and negative mood and cognitions.

Give an example of an intrusive symptom of PTSD.

Repeated, involuntary distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks of the traumatic event.

What are some behaviors seen in individuals experiencing alterations in arousal and reactivity?

Hypervigilance, irritability, reckless or self-destructive behaviors, angry outbursts, and exaggerated startle response.

How does PTSD affect mood and cognition?

It can lead to negative beliefs about oneself or others, persistent fear, guilt, or shame, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions.

What are two first-line pharmacologic treatments for PTSD?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Name two non-medication treatments for PTSD.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and peer support groups.

What is Trauma-Informed Care (TIC)?

A care approach that prioritizes physical, emotional, and psychological safety while empowering trauma survivors.

Why is Trauma-Informed Care important in nursing practice?

It helps prevent retraumatization, fosters trust, and promotes recovery for trauma survivors.

How does the principle of safety apply to Trauma-Informed Care?

It ensures that both patients and staff feel physically and emotionally safe in healthcare settings.

What does the principle of trustworthiness & transparency mean in TIC?

Healthcare providers should make decisions openly and clearly to build trust with patients.

How does peer support contribute to Trauma-Informed Care?

It integrates individuals with shared trauma experiences to help promote healing and recovery.

What is the role of collaboration and mutuality in TIC?

It reduces power imbalances and encourages shared decision-making between patients and providers.

Why is empowerment, voice, and choice crucial in Trauma-Informed Care?

It validates patient strengths and promotes resilience, ensuring individuals regain a sense of control.

How does Trauma-Informed Care address cultural, historical, and gender issues?

It recognizes and addresses biases, stereotypes, and the impact of historical trauma on individuals and communities.