Nurses play a crucial role in identifying PTSD symptoms, especially in patients who may not openly discuss their trauma. Here are some key approaches:
Patient history: Carefully review the patient's medical history for signs of trauma exposure. Behavioral observations: Pay attention to signs of anxiety, agitation, or avoidance behaviors. Patient questionnaires: Use validated screening tools like the PTSD Checklist (PCL) to assess symptoms. Therapeutic communication: Create a safe, non-judgmental environment for patients to share their experiences.
