Trauma and Dissociation: Treatment Perspectives

Abstract

TOPIC: How advanced practice nurses can work with trauma survivors to decrease dissociation as a needed coping mechanism. PURPOSE: To review the literature on trauma and dissociation as well as current treatment perspectives. SOURCES: Review of the literature and authors' clinical experience. CONCLUSIONS: Advanced practice nurses can use knowledge of selected psychopharmacological medications and Erikson's stages of psychosocial development to plan treatment for posttrauma clients.