Acute Stress Reaction

Question 1

What is the definition of acute stress reaction?

Answer 1

Transient disorder that develops in response to exceptional physical and/or mental stress, typically subsiding within hours or days; should last no more than one month.

Question 2

What are some risk factors for acute stress reaction?

Answer 2

Female gender
Severity of trauma
Specific traumas (rape and physical injury)

Question 3

What are some clinical features of acute stress reaction?

Answer 3

Recurrent distressing memories and/or dreams of traumatic event
‘Flashbacks’ of the event
Sense of being detached from self and emotions
Avoidance of thoughts about event
Sleep problems
Irritability

Question 4

What is the management of acute stress reaction?

Answer 4

Ensure patient safety
Practical support (eg police report, work leave of absence)
Trauma focused CBT (first line)