Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Academic Term
Summer 2015
Document Type
Project
Course Number
NURS 5330
Course Name
Advanced Pathophysiology
Professor’s Name
John D. Chovan, James R. Cacchillo
Keywords
Veterans, PTSD, Symptoms, Evidence-Based Treatment Plan
Subject Categories
Medical Pathology | Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing | Psychiatric and Mental Health
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after witnessing or experiencing a terrifying event (Mayo Clinic, 2015). PTSD can manifest in a variety of symptoms including, nightmares, flashbacks, insomnia, irritability, and anger (Mayo Clinic, 2015). The extended combat engagement in Afghanistan and Iraq have caused many casualties for American service members, both physically and mentally. The Veterans Affairs (VA) stated that 476,515 people sought treatment for PTSD in 2011 alone (Veteran Affairs, 2014). The veterans returning home from combat require adequate services to support their transition to civilian life. Barriers may exist for those members with PTSD symptoms seeking treatment. The healthcare system must have an understanding of the unique set of psychological problems that veterans face to provide proper treatment. The disparity that exists between PTSD patients and treatment is a gap worth closing. The lack of identification of symptoms, availability of treatment, and overall failure to support veterans in need can have drastic results. A large population of the country knows of a veteran that has served in combat, or has served themselves. The author served as a United States Marine deployed in combat and also has family currently battling with PTSD and other psychiatric issues related to experiences in war. The treatment of veterans and others with psychiatric conditions, can be related by nursing staff in many different specialties. The acute psychosis seen in the emergency department or the overwhelming depression in the long term care facilities should be treated appropriately. Patient care will improve when healthcare providers and workers have a more knowledgeable understanding of PTSD.
Recommended Citation
Packard, Zachary, "Post Traumatic Stress Disorder" (2015). Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN). 123.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_msn/123