Mental Health: Therapeutic Communication and PTSD

These flashcards cover key concepts in therapeutic communication and PTSD from the lecture notes, providing definitions and important distinctions.

Acute Stress vs. PTSD

Acute stress is a temporary response lasting up to one month, while PTSD is a long-term condition that can last for a lifetime.

Therapeutic Communication

A communication technique that includes listening attentively, summarizing what the patient said, and asking open-ended questions.

Vital Signs in Stress Response

Increased heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR) without accompanying fever.

Building Nurse-Client Rapport

Establishing a trustful relationship focused on the patient, maintaining confidentiality, and avoiding including the patient’s family initially.

Suicidal Inquiry

It is essential to directly ask a patient if they are having suicidal thoughts rather than avoid the topic.

Working Phase of Therapeutic Relationship

The phase where data gathering occurs to understand the client's needs and issues.

Termination Phase

The phase that involves reviewing accomplishments and the progress made during therapy.

Nonverbal Communication

Communication through body language, eye contact, and empathetic responses, such as not interrupting and clarifying when someone stops speaking.

Transference

A phenomenon where the patient projects feelings or experiences related to someone else onto the nurse.

Countertransference

When the nurse feels reminded of someone they know in relation to the patient, affecting their objectivity.

PTSD Symptoms

Insomnia, detachment, avoidance of reminders, anger, and re-experiencing events through nightmares.

Maladaptive Coping

Ineffective coping strategies that hinder one's ability to deal with stress or illness.

Red Flags in Suicidal Ideation

Phrases like 'It should've been me' indicate a high risk for suicide and should be prioritized.

Effective Coping Strategies

Healthy coping behaviors such as journaling, exercise, and avoiding procrastination in seeking medical help.

Causes of PTSD

Experiences such as combat, rape, and significant trauma can lead to the development of PTSD.

Self-Harm vs. Hopelessness

Self-harm is often an immediate risk, while hopelessness reflects a sense of feeling worthless.