Question

A nurse in a community health center is teaching families of clients who have post-traumatic stress disorder about expected clinical manifestations. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse include?

a. Persistent avoidance of reminders of the trauma.

b. Hyperarousal, including exaggerated startle response.

c. Flashbacks and intrusive memories.

d. Hyperventilation and chest pain.

Answer 1

A nurse should educate families about the clinical manifestations of PTSD, which include persistent avoidance of trauma reminders, hyperarousal, and intrusive memories. While hyperventilation and chest pain may also be present, they are less specific to PTSD and could be related to general anxiety or panic attacks.

Step-by-step explanation:

When educating families about the expected clinical manifestations of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is important for a nurse to include the following symptoms that those with the disorder may exhibit:

• Persistent avoidance of reminders of the trauma.
• Hyperarousal, including an exaggerated startle response.
• Flashbacks and intrusive memories of the traumatic event.
• Physical symptoms such as hyperventilation and chest pain, although these are less specific to PTSD and may be manifestations of anxiety or panic attacks related to the condition.

Understanding these manifestations can aid families in recognizing when their loved ones might be experiencing symptoms of PTSD and how to provide support. It is also essential in understanding how treatment approaches such as psychotherapy and medication might be utilized to manage and alleviate symptoms.