Trauma Informed care Role Play

Client - Lizzie

Lizzie is in her 40's, she is a mother of four children, working full time as a nurse in a local hospital. She is very personable and bubbly, with a great sense of humour. She has made her appointment to chat with you following some recent outbursts that she describes as "out of character". She feels somewhat silly having to talk to someone, however, her organisation has offered her EAP counselling following a recent incident where she was assaulted by a patient. This patient was admitted to hospital after a drug overdose. He was extremely agitated, aggressive and pushed her away several times while she was attempting to take his blood pressure. Another co-worker helped to hold the patient down so Lizzie could complete her task. As soon as the co-worker released his arms, he punched Lizzie in the chest, knocking her to the ground where she hit her head on the floor. She has been cleared of any permanent injury, was sent home to rest and given the next three days off work. She returned to work happily, however, has been finding that she is snapping at her children and husband over relatively small things. She reports having trouble sleeping and feels quite tired. She is unable to focus for long periods and is a little unsure why she is struggling with simple tasks. Can you help her?

1) What questions to ask?

2) Support and develop strategies provide that reflect the principles of trauma informed care and recovery-oriented practice