EMS care often requires providers to perform invasive assessments, ask sensitive questions, and make rapid decisions during moments of crisis. While these interventions are frequently necessary, the manner in which they are delivered can significantly influence how patients experience their care.
Resisting re-traumatization involves recognising opportunities to reduce unnecessary psychological distress without compromising timely, effective medical treatment. It also acknowledges that emergency care cannot always prevent discomfort, but it can strive to preserve dignity, autonomy, and trust whenever possible.
Many routine components of emergency care may unintentionally remind patients of previous traumatic experiences. Physical touch, removal of clothing, loud environments, loss of privacy, repeated questioning, or feeling a lack of control can all contribute to emotional distress.
For patients with a history of trauma, these experiences may trigger heightened fear, anxiety, or defensive responses. Trauma-informed providers recognise these possibilities and adapt their approach when clinically appropriate. Efforts to resist re-traumatization should not prevent providers from performing necessary medical interventions. Instead, consider whether those interventions can be delivered in ways that reduce unnecessary distress while maintaining patient safety.
Introduce yourself
Explain what you are about to do
Ask permission before initiating contact
Respect personal space
Explain why assessments are necessary
Avoid unnecessary exposure
Preserve privacy whenever possible
Limit the number of people involved when appropriate
Offer choices whenever possible
Use respectful, person-first language
Avoid judgmental or dismissive statements
Explain next steps
Allow patients time to ask questions
Avoid asking patient to repeatedly recount traumatic events unless clinically necessary
Keep patients informed about where they are going
Explain transitions between providers
Continue communicating during transport
Whenever appropriate, introduce receiving providers before transferring care
Although emergency care is unpredictable, providers can remain mindful of situations that may increase patient distress.
Examples include:
Entering a room with numerous responders when fewer are required
Performing procedures without explanation
Discussing sensitive information where others can overhear
Unnecessary exposure during assessment
Repeatedly asking patients to describe traumatic events
Using stigmatising or judgmental language
Removing a patient's sense of choice when alternatives exist.
Recognising these situations allows providers to make small adjustments that improve the patient experience without compromising the quality of their medical care.
*Video coming soon*