Psychological First Aid Following Trauma: Implementation and Evaluation Framework for High-Risk Organizations

Abstract

International clinical practice guidelines for the management of psychological trauma recommend Psychological First Aid (PFA) as an early intervention for survivors of potentially traumatic events. These recommendations are consensus-based, and there is little published evidence assessing the effectiveness of PFA. This is not surprising given the nature of the intervention and the complicating factors involved in any evaluation of PFA. There is, nevertheless, an urgent need for stronger evidence evaluating its effectiveness. The current paper posits that the implementation and evaluation of PFA within high risk organizational settings is an ideal place to start. The paper provides a framework for a phasic approach to implementing PFA within such settings and presents a model for evaluating its effectiveness using a logic- or theory-based approach which considers both pre-event and post-event factors. Phases 1 and 2 of the PFA model are pre-event actions, and phases 3 and 4 are post-event actions. It is hoped that by using the Phased PFA model and evaluation method proposed in this paper, future researchers will begin to undertake the important task of building the evidence about the most effective approach to providing PFA in high risk organizational and community disaster settings.

Specialized disaster behavioral health training: Its connection with response, practice, trauma health, and resilience

“…27 Although PFA has been touted as an evidence-based approach to respond to the mental health needs of those exposed to traumatic events, 36 more research is needed regarding its effectiveness within DBH, [46][47][48][49] especially in regards to fostering resilience and trauma health among DBH responders. 38 The present study also found that neither the number of crisis responses participated in within the past year, nor the frequency of assembling to practice crisis intervention skills within the past year were associated with any of the DBH crisis intervention strategies, trauma health or resilience. This may have been due to the low response rates to these items.…”

Work-related post-traumatic stress disorder

“…It should be emphasized that what they are experiencing 'is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation, and you will do well'. Such an approach, known as psychological first aid, has been shown to give promising results [76].…”

Mental health and Psychological first aid

“…(8) It features innovative activities, video demonstrations, and mentor tips from the nation's trauma experts and survivors. PFA online also offers a Learning Community where participants can share about experiences using PFA in the field, receive guidance during times of disaster, and obtain additional resources and training.…”

“…(6) Equally important is the help and support given by family members, neighbors, teachers, community members and first responders of various kinds (emergency medical teams, police, and fire fighters). Pychological Firstaid encompasses the following: (7,8)  It is Humane, supportive & practical assistance to fellow human beings who recently suffered a serious stressor.  It is Non-intrusive, practical care and support.…”