Exposure to Traumatic Events: What You Need to Know to Improve Patient Care

Exposure to trauma is one of the greatest threats to health in the United States, causing both immediate and long-term psychological and physical health effects. Traumatic events include, but are not limited to, child abuse/neglect, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, exposure to combat, accidents and natural disasters. The experience of a traumatic event may influence survivors' decisions when seeking medical care; therefore, it is essential for all providers to understand some fundamental principles related to trauma and trauma-informed care. Whether they realize it or not, many providers treat patients who have experienced a wide range of traumatic events, and that trauma history is likely unknown to the provider. Without an understanding of trauma-informed care principles, well-meaning providers may unknowingly retraumatize or trigger anxiety in patients. Ignoring the impact of trauma on our patients can be detrimental to patient care; however, when providers adopt trauma-informed care principles they may be more likely to engage their patients and improve overall health. The Office on Women's Health within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Region V and Dr. Sheela Raja, from the University of Illinois at Chicago, have collaborated to create a trauma training initiative to educate health and social service providers about the prevalence of traumatic events in our society and the need to enhance the understanding and use of trauma-informed care fundamentals. The training is titled: “Exposure to Traumatic Events: What You Need to Know to Improve Patient Care” and is offered to all healthcare providers.