Abstract TP122: Variables Associated With Post-Stroke PTSD; a Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis

Abstract

Background: Stroke is often a sudden, traumatic, and potentially catastrophic event for those who experience it, leading to many stroke survivors experiencing post-stroke post-traumatic stress disorder (sPTSD). The development of sPTSD may impede patients' rehabilitation and negatively affect their long-term physical and psychological outcomes. Aim: This review aims to identify and provide a narrative synthesis of the factors associated with sPTSD onset. Methods: Six databases (Web of Science, social sciences citation index, Embase, Pubmed, PsychInfo, Cinahl and PTSDPubs) were searched for studies that included samples of people who were 18 years of age or over, had had a stroke that was clinically recorded and who had a clinical diagnosis of PTSD post-stroke. Results: A total of 21 studies were included in the review, with prevalence rates of stroke varying between 6.5% - 31%, and the PDS and PCL being the most frequent method of assessing PTSD. The most common factors found to be associated with the onset of PTSD were depression, younger age, symptoms of anxiety and lifetime history of psychiatric comorbidity. Conclusion: Following a stroke, patients are at an increased risk for developing sPTSD. Preliminary analyses would suggest certain factors such as gender, age, and marital status impact the development of sPTSD. However, an agreed-upon, standardised practice in measuring and reporting SPTSD is necessary to ensure findings can be readily contextualised against previous research in a sensible and meaningful way.