Trauma Exposure/PTSD Screening

Inquiry regarding exposure to trauma and possible symptoms of PTSD can be part of a routine intake protocol. The use of screening interview questions or written questionnaires provides the practitioner with an efficient and comfortable way of introducing the topic of trauma.

If the patient has been given the written screen, the practitioner can say:

"I notice from your answers to our questionnaire that you experience some symptoms of stress. Many people have experienced extremely distressing events at some time in their lives, especially during war, and sometimes those events lead to the kinds of symptoms you have. Have you ever had an experience like that?"

If the screen has not been administered, the following sentence may help to introduce the subject:

"Many veterans experienced extremely distressing events, such as firefights, during their military service. Did you have any experiences like that?"

For those patients who screen likely for PTSD, a previously identified referral plan, such as to a PTSD specialist or clinic, should be implemented. As previously mentioned, the medical provider should then ensure that the patient complies with this crucial part of his or her treatment plan. In order to monitor the patient's compliance and progress, the medical provider should maintain on-going contact with the mental health or PTSD specialist.