The ability to identify key signs and symptoms of patients with trauma, and understand how trauma may influence their emotions, behaviours, and interactions. 

Recognition means looking beyond the surface-level presentation and acknowledging the potential impacts of a patient's past experiences.

The process of fostering trust and safety for patients through validation, empathy, and clear communication. 

Reassurance requires a proactive effort to counteract the feelings instilled by traumatic experiences and promote a supportive, healing environment.

This involves the intentional effort to avoid actions, environments, or interactions that could replicate a patient’s past experiences or trigger a trauma response. 

Resisting re-traumatization means prioritizing practices that minimize harm, rebuild trust and ensure patients feel supported, empowered and understood. 

Healthcare administration rarely takes on the responsibility of building a trauma-informed environment, yet none of this is possible without adequate responder supports.

Administration should look to allocate resources for ongoing training and professional development opportunities, conduct regular staff check-ins, and create a culture that prioritizes well-being.