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([PTSD torn paper], 2019)
Created By: Ansley Haan, RN
Created By: Ansley Haan, RN
([Nurse burnout in hallway], 2024)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in nursing refers to the psychological and emotional distress that nurses experience after repeated exposure to traumatic, high-stress, or emotionally challenging situations in their professional roles (Schuster & Dwyer, 2020). Nurses frequently encounter critical incidents such as patient tests, medical emergencies, workplace violence, and even large-scale crises, like pandemics. These experiences can take a toll on nurses and lead to PTSD.
Throughout the nursing profession, PTSD manifests in ways that are very similar to those in the general population, but is often intensified by the constant demands of patient care and the concurrent management of personal emotional distress.
Case Study: Angelina, RN
Case Study: Angelina, RN
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. PTSD can lead to emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms.
In healthcare professionals like Angelina, a 30-year-old ICU nurse, PTSD can arise from repeated exposure to critically ill patients, high-pressure environments, and the emotional toll of patient loss. Symptoms may manifest physically as headaches, chronic fatigue despite adequate sleep and jaw clenching. Emotionally, individuals may experience withdrawal from colleagues, mood instability such as bursts of anger, and disruptions in eating habits. In severe cases, PTSD can lead to work-related distress, as seen in Angelina, who dreads coming to work and experiences nausea or vomiting before shifts.
Without proper intervention, PTSD can significantly impact both personal well-being and professional performance.
([Nurse coping on a window], 2021).
References
[Nurse burnout in hallway]. (2024). [Image]. Retrieved February 1, 2025. NursingEducation. https://nursingeducation.org/insights/new-nurse-stress-management/.
[Nurse coping on a window]. (2021). [Image]. Retrieved February 1, 2025. Bridges To Recovery. https://www.bridgestorecovery.com/blog/navigating-ptsd-and-burnout-for-covid-19-healthcare-workers/.
[PTSD torn paper]. (2019). [Image]. Retrieved February 1, 2025. Community Health Systems. https://www.chsofwi.org/ptsd-and-you/.
Schuster, M., & Dwyer, P. A. (2020). Post-traumatic stress disorder in nurses: An integrative review. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 29(15-16), 2769–2787. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.15288
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