Question

Healthcare workers may be especially prone to developing post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the situations to which they are exposed. What measures should a medical center implement to minimize the effects on the healthcare worker of the horrific situations that occur, especially in the ICU and the ED? What specific causes or risk factors are addressed in each proposed action?

Answer 1

Measures to minimize PTSD in healthcare workers are:

• Handle the pressures at work by being proactive
• Be prepared for the worst and hope for the best
• Stand together, be an advocate to yourself, patients and your family
• Get socialized
• Share your fears and concerns with support groups
• Employee assistance program should be accessed in the hospital
• Take out time for yourself
• Have a sound sleep

Risk factors:

• Chronic stressful illnesses
• Cases of accidents
• Painful medical procedures
• Patients with pain intolerance
• Debilitating illness of patients
• Poor emotional control of nurse
• Poor coping skills
• Lack of organisational support
• Nurses who works in extended shifts