PTSD Flashcards
1
Q
Define PTSD
A
follows exposure to an extreme, life-threatening traumatic event (assault, combat, witnessing a violent crime) that evoke intense fear, helplessness or horror
2
Q
Top causes of PTSD in males
A
rape and combat
3
Q
Top causes of PTSD in females
A
Childhood abuse and rape
4
Q
How would a patient present with PTSD
A
reexperiencing the event (nightmares) avoidance of stimuli associated with the trauma numbed responsiveness (detached, anhedonia) increased arousal (hypervigilance, exaggerated startle)
5
Q
Time frame for PTSD
A
> 1month
6
Q
Short-term theray for PTSD
A
To target anxiety; includes beta-blockers and alpha-2 agonists (clonidine)
7
Q
Long-term PTSD therapy medications
A
SSRIs are first line; buspirone; TCAs; MAO-Is
8
Q
Non-medical therapy for LT tx of PTSD
A
Psychotherapy and support groups
9
Q
Type of drug to avoid for LT tx of PTSD
A
Benzodiazepines due to their addictive potential
