A nurse is planning care for a client with PTSD. Which intervention is appropriate for addressing avoidance symptoms?

Choice A rationale:

Taking a vacation (Choice A) might be enjoyable or stressful depending on the circumstances, but it is not generally considered a traumatic event as it does not involve a threat to one's physical or psychological well-being.

Choice B rationale:

Changing jobs (Choice B) is a significant life event, but it is not inherently a traumatic event. It can be a positive or negative experience, depending on the individual's perspective.

Choice C rationale:

Experiencing a natural disaster (Choice C) is a traumatic event according to the text. Natural disasters can result in life-threatening situations, loss of property, and psychological distress, potentially leading to long-lasting effects on mental health.

Choice D rationale:

Celebrating a birthday (Choice D) is a joyful occasion and is not considered a traumatic event. It typically brings positive emotions and does not involve exposure to harm or danger.

Choice A rationale:

Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can be physical signs of acute stress disorder. The stress response can impact the gastrointestinal system due to the activation of the "fight or flight" response.

Choice B rationale:

Cardiovascular problems, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, are also common physical signs of acute stress disorder. The body's physiological response to stress can lead to cardiovascular changes.

Choice C rationale:

Chronic pain is not typically considered a primary physical sign of acute stress disorder. While stress can exacerbate existing pain conditions, it is not among the hallmark physical symptoms of this disorder.

Choice D rationale:

Substance use disorder might develop as a maladaptive coping mechanism in response to stress, but it is not a direct physical sign that a nurse would observe upon assessment.

Choice E rationale:

Eating disorders are not typically considered a primary physical sign of acute stress disorder. While stress can affect eating habits, it is not one of the characteristic physical symptoms associated with this disorder.