EXPLORATION OF TRAUMA-INFORMED NURSING INTERVENTIONS FOR ADULTS WHO ARE SURVIVORS OF ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES: A SCOPING REVIEW

Abstract

The sentinel 1998 ACEs study found a strong connection between childhood trauma and negative long-term health outcomes in adulthood. Nurses should implement a trauma-informed care approach which recognizes the need to understand trauma that a patient has endured in their life in order to care for them effectively. The aim of this study was to explore nursing interventions that can be used by nurses to support adults who have experienced ACEs, specifically physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse. A scoping review of the literature was conducted. Out of the 14 articles found, five (n=5) were selected for inclusion. The review showed three models that can be used in clinical practice to guide trauma-informed interventions. Three (n=3) articles discussed the Six Principles of Trauma-Informed Care which include Safety, Trust and Transparency, Peer Support, Collaboration and Mutuality, Empowerment, Voice, and Choice, and Culture, History, and Gender. One article (n=1) discussed the 4 E's Model of Trauma-Informed Care which are Educate, Empathize, Explain, and Empower. One (n=1) article suggests use of the 4 R’s of Trauma-Informed Care which include Realize, Recognize, Respond, and Resist. The models revolve around understanding the effect that trauma has on a person, ensuring patient safety in the clinical setting, and gaining trust with the patient. They also placed a focus on collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to achieve patient outcomes and resisting re-traumatization.