Forensic Psychiatry / Corrections

In this site we include articles and research reviews related specifically to issues in either forensic psychiatry or correctional nursing. If you have an article or website to contribute please contact our Communications Officer on the "Contact Us" page.

National Child Traumatic Stress Network (2006) Psychological First Aid: Field Operations Guide

It has been recognized that critical incident stress debriefing may be of limited value in preventing PTSD after trauma or may worsen risk. This is because it is too short term and too soon after the event, having victims recount the trauma and feelings before they may be individually ready. A new approach has emerged from trauma and disaster work such as that of Richard Bryant in which "psychological first aid" is used - this is a set of core activities that can be used by anyone (volunteers, police, health professionals) to aid individuals in the acute stage.