Emergency response personnel are unique in that they dedicate their ti

Emergency response personnel are unique in that they dedicate their time and energy to assisting persons during stressful times of their lives. However, nurses who work with survivors of disasters may be at risk for vicarious traumatization.

How does this occur?
1. The nurse sustains an injury during the disaster.
2. Exhaustion and the inability to adjust to the pace at home occurs.
3. Frustration and conflict lead to post-traumatic stress disorder.
4. It can be a response to listening to survivors’ stories about traumatic events.

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: 4
Vicarious traumatization can be a response to listening to survivors’ stories about traumatic events. Mental health workers need to assist nurses as well as the public.