PTSD_Flashcards
What is ‘Watchful Waiting’ in the context of PTSD?
‘Watchful Waiting’ may be considered if subthreshold symptoms of PTSD are present within 1 month of a traumatic event.
When should follow-up be arranged after ‘Watchful Waiting’ for PTSD?
Follow-up should be arranged within 1 month after ‘Watchful Waiting’.
What therapy should be offered to all patients with PTSD symptoms lasting more than 1 month?
Trauma-Focused CBT should be offered to all patients with PTSD symptoms lasting more than 1 month.
How does Trauma-Focused CBT work?
Trauma-Focused CBT works by examining and testing thoughts, using exposure therapy to work through memories, and can involve discussing the experience in detail.
What are the components of Trauma-Focused CBT?
Trauma-Focused CBT includes cognitive processing therapy, cognitive therapy for PTSD, narrative exposure therapy, and prolonged exposure therapy.
What is Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and when should it be offered?
EMDR should be offered to adults with a diagnosis of PTSD or clinically important symptoms who have presented more than 3 months after non-combat related trauma.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR involves re-experiencing the original trauma in detail while focusing on a left-right stimulus (e.g., eye movements, tapping hands) to aid memory processing.
What is the purpose of Group Therapy in PTSD management?
Group Therapy involves meeting and speaking with others who have had similar experiences.
What pharmacological treatments are considered for adults with PTSD?
Pharmacological treatments for adults with PTSD include SSRIs (e.g., paroxetine and sertraline) or venlafaxine.
When might antipsychotics be considered in PTSD management?
Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone) may be considered if other treatments have failed or if there are disabling symptoms/behaviors.
What is the prognosis for most patients with PTSD?
Most patients with PTSD recover.
What can chronic PTSD lead to?
Chronic PTSD can lead to personality change.
What are the key points in the summary of PTSD management?
Key points include not recommending debriefing, using ‘Watchful Waiting’ for mild symptoms lasting less than 4 weeks, considering trauma-focused CBT or EMDR for more severe cases, and using drug treatment (e.g., paroxetine, mirtazapine) if needed.
How should the diagnosis of PTSD be explained to patients?
PTSD is a condition that occurs after trauma and is characterized by flashbacks, hyperarousal, and avoidance.
What should be considered in terms of the impact of PTSD on the patient’s life?
The impact on the patient’s life should be carefully considered.
