Psychological Emergencies Flashcards
List the types of communication important in crisis situations.
- Verbal Communication
- Non-Verbal Communication
Define grief.
A multifaceted response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something to which a bond was formed.
What are the major categories of responses to grief?
- Somatic reactions
- Emotional responses
- Disruption of social functioning
- Distortions of ‘normal’ thought
What is the difference between crisis and emergent interventions?
Crisis interventions address immediate psychological distress, while emergent interventions may involve life-threatening situations.
What are the physical signs of stress?
- Tachycardia
- Tachypnea
- Diaphoresis
What is Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD)?
A structured process to support individuals after exposure to a traumatic event.
Fill in the blank: Body language accounts for more than _______ of actual communication.
50%
What are some common somatic reactions in grief?
- Tightness in the throat
- Shortness of breath
- Lack of strength
What should you do when discussing death and dying?
- Remain calm
- Be honest and forthright
- Offer support
What characterizes panic disorder?
Sudden attacks of fear and panic, often triggered by specific events.
What is PTSD?
An anxiety disorder resulting from a psychologically traumatic event.
Define psychosis.
A serious mental state characterized by defective or lost contact with reality.
What are the symptoms of anxiety disorders?
- Persistent feelings of apprehension
- Tension
- Uneasiness
What is the most diagnosed childhood problem in the US?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
What is the main characteristic of bipolar disorder?
Alternating episodes of depression and mania.
True or False: Grief responses are predictable and uniform across individuals.
False
What should be considered in non-verbal communication?
- Body position
- Facial expression
- Hand position
What is the focus of psychiatric assessment?
To evaluate the patient’s psychological and medical history.
What factors can affect an individual’s ability to cope?
- Personality type
- Previous experience
- Support network
What is a psychiatric emergency?
An abnormal or excessive response to a stressor that poses a risk to safety.
List some risk factors in crisis management.
- High numbers of victims
- Age of patients
- Overt violence
What should be prioritized in a crisis situation involving domestic violence?
Your safety first, then the patient’s safety.
What are common emotional findings in crisis?
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Depression
What is the ‘fight or flight’ response?
A physiological and psychological response to perceived threats.
What is the GAS Syndrome?
General Adaptation Syndrome, a model describing the body’s response to stress.
Fill in the blank: Grief takes _______ to process.
time
What are the symptoms of anorexia nervosa?
- Fear of weight gain
- Malnutrition
- Excessive weight loss
What characterizes bulimia nervosa?
Compulsive overeating followed by self-induced vomiting or laxative abuse.
What is the focus of crisis management in cases of child abuse?
Emphasize the child’s best interests and document findings.
What should you do during a crisis involving elder abuse?
Remain calm, document findings, and report to authorities.
