How to keep a patient’s mental health positive during an emergency incident?

Aug 10

Keeping someone calm when injured in the backcountry is crucial for their well-being and can positively impact the overall situation. There are multiple studies that show supporting a patients mental health during a traumatic event can decrease the length of recovery time!

Stay Calm Yourself:
Project a calm and confident demeanour. Your own composure can have a reassuring effect on the injured person.

Assess the Situation:
Clearly communicate the plan of action to the injured person, helping them understand that help is on the way.

Provide Reassurance:
Share your observations about the injury and express your commitment to helping them through the situation.

Establish Trust:
Establish trust by being honest and transparent about the situation. Let them know what you're doing and why. Assure them that you will do your best to keep them safe and get help.

Encourage Slow Breathing:
Instruct them to take deep breaths, hold for a moment, and then exhale slowly. This can help regulate their emotions and prevent hyperventilation.

Distraction Techniques:
Provide distractions to help take their mind off the immediate situation, if appropriate.

Encourage Self-Help:
If the injured person is physically able, encourage them to participate in their own care. Providing small tasks or asking for their input on decision-making can empower them and reduce feelings of helplessness.

Communicate Clearly:
Clearly communicate the steps being taken for their care and any anticipated timeline for rescue or assistance. Address their concerns and questions with honesty and empathy.

Use Touch Appropriately:
Physical touch such as holding their hand or placing a hand on their shoulder, can provide comfort. However, be mindful of cultural and individual preferences, and ensure that your touch is consoling.

Lastly, keep the patient warm!
Remember that each person is unique, and your approach may need to be adapted based on their personality, the nature of the injury, and the overall circumstances.