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 in the present and is safe.
•PTSD is characterized by the re-experiencing of an extremely traumatic event, avoidance of stimuli associated with the event, numbing of responsiveness, and persistent increased arousal.
•Distraction involves shifting the patient’s attention and energy to a more neutral topic.
•Reality orientation is when the patient is continuously reminded of their name, the date, and current events.
•Relaxation techniques include guided imagery that involves imagining a safe, enjoyable place to relax.