A client is seeking counseling due to difficulty coping with being a victim of a violent attack 16 months ago. The initial medical diagnosis is to rule out posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which would the nurse assess for when determining the major elements of PTSD? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The three major elements of PTSD are reexperiencing the trauma through dreams or recurrent and intrusive thoughts, showing emotional numbing such as feeling detached from others, and being on guard, irritable, or experiencing hyperarousal. Feeling mildly anxious is not a major element of PTSD as the person is likely to feel very anxious.
Occurring 2 weeks after the trauma would likely be acute stress disorder as PTSD symptoms occur 3 months or more after the trauma.

A Client Is Seeking Counseling Due to Difficulty Coping with Being