Acute stress reaction + Adjustment disorder Flashcards
Define an acute stress reaction.
Transient emotional, somatic, cognitive, or behavioural Sx resulting from exposure to an event or situation
What is the aetiology of an acute stress reaction?
Being exposed to a traumatic event
What is the time course of ASD?
Occurs within mins-hours of event
Subside within days-weeks
(No longer than 1 month)
Summarise the epidemiology of an acute stress reaction.
ASD affects 14 to 33% of persons exposed to severe trauma.
What are signs and symptoms of an acute stress reaction?
Dissociation: Initial state of ‘daze’- reduced consciousness/ attention, comprehension + disorientation.
Withdrawal OR agitation + over-activity (flight reaction or fugue)
Autonomic signs of panic (tachycardia, sweating, flushing) common.
Give 4 features of ASD that also arise in PTSD
Re-experiencing/ Intrusion
Avoidance behaviours.
Hyperarousal
Mood: negative
What investigations should be performed for an acute stress reaction?
ICD-10 acute stress reaction checklist
What is the management for an acute stress reaction?
Exclude injury
Often, support + reassurance is all that is required.
Trauma focused CBT (6)
What medication may be used in ASD?
Benzodiazepines 2-4w
For intense anxiety, agitation or sleep disturbance
(do not prevent later PTSD)
What are complications associated with acute stress reaction?
Later progression to PTSD
What is adjustment disorder?
subjective distress + emotional disturbance, usually interfering with social functioning + performance
Occurs in period of adaptation to a significant life change/ stressful life event
What is the time course of adjustment disorder?
Sx arise within 1 month of the stressor + resolve within 6 months
What is management of adjustment disorder?
Support, reassurance + problem solving
