The Influence of Psychological Trauma in Nursing

Karen J. Foli · John R. Thompson

Jun 2019 · Sigma

About this ebook

As nurses know firsthand, the impact of psychological trauma is not limited to those who experience it. Others—including nurses and caregivers—are indirectly affected. In healthcare, patients’ psychological trauma may manifest in odd, uncomfortable, or confusing behaviors. Nurses and healthcare workers must recognize that patients may be feeling unsafe or struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, grief, loneliness, or depression born from trauma. As nurses listen to, empathize with, and sometimes grieve with the people they care for, they need to comprehend the “why” behind these feelings and actions.

The Influence of Psychological Trauma in Nursing helps nurses gain awareness and knowledge about trauma and recovery so they can heal and bring holistic healing to others. Authors Karen J. Foli and John R. Thompson provide a primer on psychological trauma, helping readers identify and understand the common forms of trauma in society. Filled with examples, tools, assessments, and learning objectives, this book helps nurses move forward as trauma-informed caregivers.

About the author

is an Associate Professor and the Director of the PhD in Nursing Program at Purdue University School of Nursing. Devoting much of her career to alleviating the suffering of psychological trauma and preparing nurses to explore and build upon the science of nursing, she is currently researching and examining the role of psychological trauma in substance use in registered nurses. 

practices psychiatric medicine for Purdue University’s Counseling and Psychological Services. With over 30 years of experience in medical practice in multiple healthcare settings, he currently assesses and counsels young adults enrolled in higher education who are processing and recovering from trauma.