MDC Health & Medical Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Question Nursing Assignment Help

Expert Solution Preview

Introduction:
Acute stress disorder, F43.0 acute stress reaction, and F43.1 post-traumatic stress disorder are all psychological conditions that can result from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. In this answer, we will provide information on the definition, signs and symptoms, DSM-5 criteria, and treatment plans, including medications and dosing.

Acute Stress Disorder:
Definition:
Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a psychological condition that occurs within a month after exposure to a traumatic event. It is characterized by the development of various distressing symptoms that significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning.

Signs and Symptoms:
Common signs and symptoms of acute stress disorder include:

1. Intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event
2. Nightmares or flashbacks related to the event
3. Persistent avoidance of reminders or triggers associated with the event
4. Negative mood or emotional instability
5. Hypervigilance or increased arousal
6. Sleep disturbances
7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
8. Anxiety or panic attacks

DSM-5 Criteria:
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), the following criteria must be met for a diagnosis of acute stress disorder:

1. Exposure to a traumatic event
2. Presence of at least nine symptoms from any of the five categories (intrusion, negative mood, dissociation, avoidance, arousal)
3. Duration of symptoms between 3 days and 1 month
4. Significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning

Treatment Plan:
The treatment of acute stress disorder typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline or paroxetine, may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances. The dosing and frequency of these medications should be determined by a healthcare provider based on the individual’s specific needs.

Psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused therapy, is the recommended approach for treating acute stress disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are commonly used therapeutic modalities. These forms of therapy aim to help individuals process and cope with the traumatic event, reduce distressing symptoms, and promote adaptive functioning.

It is important to note that the specific treatment plan, including medications and dosing, should be individualized and determined by a qualified healthcare professional based on the patient’s unique circumstances and preferences.

F43.0 Acute Stress Reaction:
Definition:
Acute stress reaction (ASR), also known as acute stress response, is an immediate psychological response to an overwhelming traumatic event. It is a transient condition that typically resolves within hours to a few days.

Signs and Symptoms:
Common signs and symptoms of acute stress reaction include:

1. Feelings of shock, disbelief, or detachment
2. Emotional numbness or inability to experience pleasure
3. Confusion or disorientation
4. Re-experiencing the traumatic event through intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
5. Hyperarousal and increased startle response
6. Sleep disturbances
7. Impaired concentration or memory
8. Anxiety or panic attacks

DSM-5 Criteria:
Acute stress reaction is not officially recognized as a separate diagnostic category in the DSM-5. Instead, it is considered a normal and expected reaction to a traumatic event. However, if the symptoms persist beyond a few days or significantly impair functioning, a diagnosis of acute stress disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder may be appropriate.

Treatment Plan:
The treatment plan for acute stress reaction is focused on providing immediate support and interventions to help individuals cope with the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. This may include:

1. Psychological first aid: Offering emotional support, reassurance, and information about common stress reactions.
2. Supportive counseling: Providing a safe environment for individuals to express and process their feelings.
3. Education: Offering information about stress management techniques, self-care, and available resources.
4. Referral: Assessing the need for further psychological evaluation or therapy and making appropriate referrals.

It is crucial to monitor individuals with acute stress reaction closely and evaluate the need for additional interventions or mental health support if symptoms persist or worsen.

F43.1 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
Definition:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic psychiatric condition that develops after a traumatic event and lasts for more than a month. It is characterized by a complex array of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning and quality of life.

Signs and Symptoms:
Common signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder include:

1. Intrusive thoughts, memories, or nightmares related to the traumatic event
2. Avoidance of reminders or triggers associated with the event
3. Negative alterations in mood or cognition
4. Hyperarousal, including hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response
5. Sleep disturbances and nightmares
6. Flashbacks or dissociative reactions
7. Irritability, anger, or emotional outbursts
8. Feelings of guilt, shame, or diminished interest in activities

DSM-5 Criteria:
To meet the diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder, an individual must experience the following symptoms for more than one month:

1. Exposure to a traumatic event
2. Intrusion symptoms
3. Avoidance symptoms
4. Negative alterations in mood and cognition
5. Arousal and reactivity symptoms
6. Significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning

Treatment Plan:
The treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and, in some cases, medication.

Psychotherapy approaches proven effective for PTSD include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy (PE), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma-focused therapy. These therapies aim to help individuals process the traumatic event, develop coping mechanisms, and reduce symptom severity.

Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline or paroxetine, may be prescribed to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances associated with PTSD. The specific medication, dosing, and frequency should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and considerations.

It is crucial to emphasize the importance of a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan, aligned with the unique needs and preferences of each patient. Regular monitoring, assessment, and collaboration between healthcare providers and patients are essential for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of any treatment approach.