Abstract | OBJECTIVE: To educate family physicians about screening, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders related to traumatic events. QUALITY OF EVIDENCE: PsycLIT, PsychINFO, PILOTS, and MEDLINE databases were searched from January 1985 to December 2000 using the terms " acute stress disorder," " posttraumatic stress disorder," "traumatic stress," "psychotherapy," "psychosocial treatment," "treatment," and " pharmacotherapy." Recommendations concerning treatment of acute stress disorder (ASD) and posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) are based on evidence from trials of the highest quality. Conclusions about assessment and diagnosis are based on the most recent epidemiologic studies, consensus, and expert opinion. MAIN MESSAGE: Very often, ASD and PTSD are underdiagnosed and undertreated. Family physicians are likely to see patients suffering from these disorders. Early screening in primary care is a function of active listening; warm, safe patient-physician relationships; and careful examination of difficulties related to traumatic events. Ideally, patients with either ASD or PTSD should be referred to a specialist. If a specialist is unavailable, family physicians can offer support and prescribe medication to address patients' symptoms. CONCLUSION: Family physicians can help identify and treat patients presenting with disorders related to traumatic events.
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Authors | Stéphane Guay, Nicole Mainguy, André Marchand |
Journal | Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien
(Can Fam Physician)
Vol. 48
Pg. 512-7
(Mar 2002)
ISSN: 0008-350X [Print] Canada |
Vernacular Title | Les troubles liés aux événements traumatiques. Dépistage et traitement. |
PMID | 11935715
(Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Review)
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Chemical References |
- Anti-Anxiety Agents
- Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
- Benzodiazepines
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Topics |
- Anti-Anxiety Agents
(therapeutic use)
- Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
(therapeutic use)
- Benzodiazepines
- Family Practice
- Humans
- Medical History Taking
- Physician-Patient Relations
- Referral and Consultation
- Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic
(diagnosis, psychology, therapy)
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