Week 7 replies
2 years ago
10
MarianVinasreply.docx
AnaHenrnandezreply.docx
MarianVinasreply.docx
Marian Vinas
Florida National University
Professor: Dr. Nora Hernandez-Pupo
December 11, 2024
Trauma-informed Care
Trauma-sensitive care is a crucial model for caring for patients’ physical, psychological, and emotional well-being in the context of trauma. DJ’s case exemplifies the need for such an approach as her presentation to the emergency department (ED) demonstrates the interplay between domestic violence, chronic illnesses, and psychological trauma. When thinking about DJ’s case, it is important to evaluate whether her treatment was consistent with the principles of trauma-informed care and to identify how the application of these principles can improve her well-being.
One way this case could have been handled differently is by more explicitly addressing DJ’s emotional safety and empowering her throughout the process (Forkey et al., 2021). For instance, based on the fact that DJ was worried that her partner would know she was in the hospital, the ED team could guarantee that nobody in the partner’s vicinity would be informed of her admission to the hospital. This entails ensuring that visitors are restricted and any contact from outside is well managed. Further, the team could try to reduce her sense of vulnerability while she is in the hospital, for example, by allowing her to make choices in her care plan whenever possible, such as having someone she knows with her during a physical exam.
The nurse’s initial approach to obtaining DJ’s history could also have been more trauma sensitive. Although, it is important to ask about DJ’s medical and psychosocial history, the questions about her experience of violence and whether she has PTSD should have been asked in a sensitive manner (Bennett et al., 2022). Such wording promotes sharing information, and at the same time, it does not force DJ to retell traumatic stories. In order to improve the care of DJ, some more trauma-informed approaches like emotional safety, building trust, and working together could have been integrated more. One action would be to ensure that she was given reasons for each of the procedures done to her, and the reason why her airway was being monitored and treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Explaining these procedures would be beneficial to DJ since she would comprehend how the procedures are in line with her recovery and safety.
The other important step would be to listen to her carefully and acknowledge her emotions, which might help her feel valued. Building trust is one of the core principles of trauma-informed care, and in DJ’s case, it might have been bolstered by more effective communication and check-ins (Kimberg & Wheeler, 2019). For example, after transferring DJ to the ICU, the ED team should coordinate with the ICU staff to share her expressed needs and concerns to guarantee that the care provided remains patient centered. Further conversations with social workers or advocates may also help her by providing safety planning materials, legal advice, or information about local organizations addressing domestic violence or trauma. Finally, it is crucial to acknowledge the structural aspect of trauma within the context of healthcare interactions. The ED team should anticipate how DJ’s PTSD history may impact her reactions to medical procedures and make adjustments to minimize these triggers.
References
Bennett, A., Crosse, K., Ku, M., Edgar, N. E., Hodgson, A., & Hatcher, S. (2022). Interventions to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in vulnerably housed populations and trauma-informed care: a scoping review. BMJ open, 12(3), e051079.
Forkey, H., Szilagyi, M., Kelly, E. T., & Duffee, J. (2021). Trauma-informed care. Pediatrics, 148(2).
Kimberg, L., & Wheeler, M. (2019). Trauma and trauma-informed care. Trauma-informed healthcare approaches: A guide for primary care, 25-56.
AnaHenrnandezreply.docx
Name: Ana Hernandez
Institution: FNU
Course: Decision Making-DBX-DL01
Professor: Dr. Nora Hernandez-Pupo
Date: 12/11/2024
Trauma-informed care (TIC) is essential in cases like DJ’s, where medical and emotional needs intertwine. TIC involves recognizing the prevalence of trauma, understanding its impact, and responding with sensitivity to foster trust and safety. In DJ’s situation, while her immediate physical health, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and airway compromise were prioritized, additional measures could have been implemented to ensure holistic care that addressed her trauma history (Kimberg & Wheeler, 2019).
Could the Case Have Been Handled Differently?
While the healthcare team effectively managed DJ’s acute medical conditions, there were opportunities to enhance her care using TIC principles. For example:
· Addressing Emotional Safety: DJ’s explicit request to keep her hospital visit confidential may have necessitated additional privacy safeguards. Proactively communicating these measures could have reinforced trust.
· Sensitivity to Trauma History: Although her PTSD and history of domestic violence were known, it is unclear if the care team adjusted their approach to align with her trauma experiences, such as offering control over her environment and procedures.
· Psychosocial Support: There is no mention of involving a social worker, counselor, or domestic violence advocate to support DJ in processing her trauma and exploring safety options (Bargeman, Smith, & Wekerle, 2021).
Recommended Actions
1. Ensure Privacy and Safety: Secure her medical records to prevent unauthorized access and emphasize to DJ that her confidentiality is respected.
2. Build Trust Through Communication: Explain all procedures in simple, nonjudgmental terms. For example, “We’re monitoring your neck closely because of the injuries you mentioned. Let us know if anything feels uncomfortable.”
3. Provide Emotional and Social Support: Engage a social worker or advocate to address immediate safety concerns, offer domestic violence resources, and explore her readiness to access protective services.
4. Empower Her Voice: Actively involve DJ in her care plan by asking how she would like to proceed and validating her feelings (Goddard, 2021).
Trauma-Informed Care Components to Implement
· Safety: Prioritize physical and emotional safety, such as a private room and consistent reassurance.
· Trust and Transparency: Explain interventions clearly and involve DJ in decision-making.
· Collaboration: Integrate multidisciplinary teams, including social workers and counselors, to address her holistic needs.
· Empowerment: Respect her autonomy by allowing her to set boundaries and voice preferences.
· Cultural Sensitivity: Consider her role as a mother and the potential stigma she may face as a survivor of domestic violence (Isobel, 2021).
In conclusion, trauma-informed care is essential in addressing both the physical and emotional needs of patients like DJ, who presents with a complex history of trauma, domestic violence, and chronic health conditions. This approach requires healthcare providers to prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment, fostering an environment where patients feel respected and supported. DJ’s case highlights the need for sensitivity in communication, ensuring her confidentiality, and addressing her immediate medical concerns while acknowledging her trauma history. Incorporating trauma-informed principles, such as explaining procedures, offering choices, and validating her experiences, allows for a more compassionate and effective care experience (Thirkle, Kennedy, & Sice, 2021). Additionally, involving interdisciplinary support, including social workers and counselors, ensures that DJ has access to resources that can help her navigate her safety and long-term well-being. Respecting her autonomy and cultural context is critical in empowering her to make decisions about her care. By adopting a trauma-informed approach, healthcare providers not only enhance the quality of care but also build trust, promote healing, and support DJ in taking steps toward a safer, healthier future (Guest, 2021).
References
Bargeman, M., Smith, S., & Wekerle, C. (2021). Trauma-informed care as a rights-based “standard of care”: A critical review. Child Abuse & Neglect, e104762.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104762
Goddard, A. (2021). Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma-Informed Care. Journal of Pediatric Health Care, 145-155.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedhc.2020.09.001
Guest, H. (2021). A concept analysis of trauma-informed care. Wiley Online Library, 1000-1007.
https://doi.org/10.1111/nuf.12626
Isobel, S. (2021). The ‘trauma’ of trauma-informed care. Australasian Psychiatry, 604-606.
https://doi.org/10.1177/10398562211022756
Kimberg, l., & Wheeler, M. (2019). Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care. Trauma-Informed Healthcare Approaches, 25-56.
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-04342-1_2
Thirkle, S. A., Kennedy, A., & Sice, P. (2021). Instruments for Exploring Trauma-Informed Care. Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, 30-44.
https://doi.org/10.37808/jhhsa.44.1.2