Abstract 184: Symptoms And Functional Impairment Among First Aid Providers

Abstract

Symptoms and Functional Impairment among First Aid Providers Øvstebø AMM, Bjørshol CA, Lindner TW. Introduction: A first aid provider (FAP) follow-up program was initiated in Norway in 2020. FAPs are people who have been present or provided first aid to an unconscious person. The aim was to measure symptoms and functional impairments of FAPs following first aid incidents, and change over time. Hypothesis: Our hypothesis was that FAPs have significant psychological impairment. Methods: FAPs filled out an International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) at follow-up and after 6 months. ITQ focuses on core features of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). Endorsement of a symptom or functional impairment is defined as a score ≥ 2 (scale 0-4).The number of FAPs with a score ≥ 2 were counted for each question, and the five questions with the highest count were identified. We found the number of FAPs attending after more than 31 days who met the criteria of PTSD and CPTSD. Results were compared using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test. Results: 63 of 75 (84%) FAPs scored ≥ 2 on at least one question. ITQ questions with highest count, and no. of answers ≥ 2 (%): Being “super-alert”, watchful, or on guard: 34 of 75 (45%). Affected any other important part of your life: 32 of 75 (43%). Avoiding internal reminders of the experience: 31 of 75 (41%). Having powerful images or memories that sometimes come into your mind: 29 of 75 (39%). Affected your work or ability to work: 27 of 75 (36%). Five of 24 FAPs (21%) who attended more than 31 days after the incident fulfilled the criteria of PTSD/CPTSD. Median ITQ score when attending follow-up was 12.0, this was significantly reduced to 9.0 at 6 months (n =23, p=0.047). Conclusions: A high number of FAPs have endorsement of a symptom or functional impairment. Some meet the criteria for PTSD or CPTSD after more than 31 days. There was a significant reduction in ITQ score after 6 months. This might be a result of FAP follow-up.