Critical incident stress debriefing following traumatic life experiences

This study was designed to explore the use of critical incident stress debriefing as a therapeutic intervention following traumatic life events. A case study approach was used to allow the researchers to adopt a more flexible and overtly involved stance. Initial contact took place 24 h following the traumatic life experiences of three women. Critical incident stress debriefing was provided and data were collected and recorded within an ethical framework. Six months following the traumatic life experiences the women were interviewed again to explore their perceptions of the intervention that was provided. The results demonstrated positive outcomes. The women concluded that the debriefing intervention provided a safe forum for them to explore their needs, process their experiences and create constructive narratives. A carefully constructed critical incident stress debriefing intervention was used within the context of its objectives and acknowledged limitations. The study was small and generalizations cannot be made to other individuals who experience similar tragedies. Nevertheless, evidence from previous research coupled with the findings from this study suggests that mental health nurses might benefit from being educated and trained in critical incident stress debriefing. Further research needs to be carried out to explore the use of different models of stress debriefing applied to special circumstances. The goal of such interventions should be to alleviate symptoms and to prevent the development of a full-blown post-traumatic stress disorder.