Acute stress disorder

Question 1

How soon after a traumatic event does Acute Stress Disorder develop?

Answer 1

occurs in the first 4 weeks

(PTSD occurs after 4 weeks)

Question 2

What events can commonly cause an acute stress disorder?

Answer 2

threatened death
serious injury
e.g. road traffic accident, sexual assault

Question 3

Features of acute stress disorder

Answer 3

intrusive thoughts e.g. flashbacks, nightmares
dissociation
negative mood
avoidance
arousal e.g. hypervigilance, sleep disturbance

Question 4

First line management

Answer 4

trauma-focused CBT

Question 5

What pharmacological management can be used for acute symptoms such as agitation or sleep disturbance?

Answer 5

benzodiazepines