A nurse works with a patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who has frequent flashbacks as well as persistent symptoms of arousal. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care?
A) Trigger flashbacks intentionally in order to help the patient learn to cope with them.
B) Explain that the physical symptoms are related to the psychological state.
C) Encourage repression of memories associated with the traumatic event.
D) Support "numbing" as a temporary way to manage intolerable feelings.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Persons with PTSD often experience somatic symptoms or sympathetic nervous system arousal that can be confusing and distressing. Explaining that these are the body's responses to psychological trauma helps the patient understand how such symptoms are part of the illness and something that will respond to treatment. This decreases powerlessness over the symptoms and helps instill a sense of hope. It also helps the patient to understand how relaxation, breathing exercises, and imagery can be helpful in symptom reduction. The goal of treatment for PTSD is to come to terms with the event so treatment efforts would not include repression of memories or numbing. Triggering flashbacks would increase patient distress.

A Nurse Works with a Patient Diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress