35-year-old man, former Army sergeant, was involved in a multi-vehicle accident

Question

35-year-old man, former Army sergeant, was involved in a multi-vehicle accident on a major highway. He was relatively unhurt, but witnessed several bodies strewn across the road immediately after the accident. This caused him to experience “flashbacks” from an active Army combat zone several years earlier. He begins to have nightmares of the accident and becomes unable to function at home.  His wife accompanies him to a Crisis Unit where he is subsequently admitted to the Mental Health Unit of a local hospital with a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. 

Initial Discussion Post:

Address the following:

What are the most important factors for the RN to assess when dealing with a client who is exhibiting flashbacks?
How might the RN foster therapeutic communication with this client?
List three common flashback triggers for former military personnel and describe how the RN can assist to decrease the effects.
Provide two 3-part nursing diagnosis statements that might apply to former military personnel experiencing flashbacks. Each statement must include an actual NANDA-I nursing diagnosis, a related factor, and “as evidenced by.” (No risk-for diagnoses permitted.)

Explanation / Answer

1.The most important factors for the Rn to assess while dealing with the traumatised patient is the breathing rate of the patient,examine if there any physical pains,any delusions,any scary nightmares.It is vital to consider intruisive thoughts such as images,emotions,sounds and sensations that are likely to irritate ,thus resulting in flashbacks.Rn does therefore need to teach on the relaxation techniques tailored to the individuals flashback profile while on the other hand providing encouragement and support through counseling.

2.Some tips to be followed like,

3.The three common flashback are met with an accident,several bodies strewn accross the road ,happened on a major highway.The RN Should assist the decrease of the effects by the awareness of some trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapies and medications used as first line treatments.

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