The nurse is caring for a patient with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While working with the patient during a flashback, the nurse says: "I know you are scared, but you are in a safe place. Do you see the bed in your room? Do you feel the chair you are sitting on?" The nurse is using which of the following techniques?
Explanation
• Grounding techniques are helpful to use with a patient who is dissociating or experiencing a flashback. Grounding techniques remind the patient that he or she is safe and in the present time.
• PTSD is characterized by the re-experiencing of an extremely traumatic event, avoidance of stimuli associated with the event, numbing of responsiveness, and persistent and increased arousal.
• Incorrect: Distraction involves shifting the patient’s attention and energy to a more neutral topic.
• Incorrect: Reality orientation is when the patient is continuously reminded of their name, the date, and current events.
• Incorrect: Relaxation techniques include guided imagery that involves imagining a safe, enjoyable place to relax.