In this topic, you will be introduced to physiological and psychological responses to stress and trauma-related disorders. Goals of safe, effective treatment and potential pharmacological measures will be presented. Client conditions covered in this topic include acute stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attachment disorders of childhood. Dissociative disorders resulting from exposure to extreme trauma will also be discussed, including dissociative amnesia, depersonalization/derealization disorder, and dissociative identity disorder
Objectives:
- Examine the contributing factors, psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual influences, signs and symptoms; age-related considerations; and evidence-based screening and assessment tools related to trauma and stressorrelated disorders across the life span.
- Utilize the nursing process to develop, implement, and evaluate a trauma-informed, client-centered plan for clients who are experiencing acute or chronic stress, trauma responses, or dissociative disorders.
- Discuss the classifications, therapeutic effects, major adverse effects, client and family education, and nursing considerations of selected medications used in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Utilize effective therapeutic communication with clients who have trauma or stressor-related disorders
- Understand milieu management considerations and evidence-based therapy techniques used to support recovery for clients who have experienced acute or complex traumas.
- Recognize the unique social and spiritual needs of clients at highest risk for exposure to trauma, including children, first responders, law enforcement personnel, health care workers, teachers, and military personnel.