Abstract
Abstract Background Secondary interventions are implemented within a short interval following the occurrence of traumatic events with the purpose of preventing the onset of PTSD. Objective Analyze the results of studies that assessed post-trauma interventions in adults aimed at preventing the onset of PTSD or symptoms related to PTSD. Methods We performed literature searches using the search expression [(Early intervention OR secondary prevention) AND (Post traumatic stress disorder OR PTSD)] for articles published until October 2016. Among the references found, 29 fulfilled the selection criteria established for the review. Data were divided and analyzed according to the type of intervention: pharmacological or psychological. Results Psychological measures used in the studies lack homogeneity regarding the type of intervention and the assessment of intervention outcomes. Pharmacological interventions were less frequent and findings require replication, together with an expansion in the types of substances investigated. In general, many of the studies reviewed suggest that both pharmacological and psychological interventions are effective in the prevention of PTSD. Discussion Future trials should be focused on determining the best interventions for the secondary prevention of PTSD. The combination of psychological and pharmacological interventions for post-trauma patients poses opportunities and challenges that remain unexplored.
Highlights
We performed literature searches using the search expression [(Early intervention OR secondary prevention) AND (Post traumatic stress disorder OR post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD))] for articles published until October 2016
According to the DSM-IV, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by a set of responses triggered by exposure to a significant traumatic event
Interventions implemented shortly after the occurrence of the trauma are aimed at the secondary prevention of PTSD, that is, they are attempts to avoid the development of the disorder in individuals who have already been exposed to the traumatic event and reduce occasional harms resulting from the experience
Summary
According to the DSM-IV, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by a set of responses triggered by exposure to a significant traumatic event. The condition generally involves four groups of symptoms consisting of persistent re-experiencing of the traumatic event in one or more forms (e.g., in nightmares or through feelings similar to those experienced in the traumatic event), constant avoidance of stimuli associated with the trauma, recurrent arousal responses, and cognition or mood alterations associated with the traumatic event. These symptoms should last more than a month and be followed by significant impairment or distress for the individual[1]. The combination of psychological and pharmacological interventions for post-trauma patients poses opportunities and challenges that remain unexplored
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