Intensive care unit nurses are at increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, due to their stressful work environment. The disorder of PTSD, often thought of as affecting soldiers who have fought in war, has changed over time with new knowledge. Findings from a conceptual analysis using the Walker and Avant method provide clarification for healthcare professionals and hospital stakeholders to better understand PTSD as it pertains to ICU nurses and its impact on their lives, patient care, and healthcare organizations.
Presenter
Paula Levi, BSN, RN
Paula Levi is a second-year PhD student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing. She is a National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health Fellow. Her research focus is on intensive care unit nurses with post-traumatic stress disorder and interventions to allow these nurses to continue working in their stressful workplace.