Primary Care Advanced Practice RNs' Knowledge of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Screening

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Psychiatry
• Primary Care

Background:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often undiagnosed in primary care.
• Primary care providers (PCPs) may lack adequate knowledge of PTSD screening.
• Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are key in primary care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess primary care APRNs' knowledge of PTSD screening.
• To evaluate APRNs' attitudes, self-efficacy, and subjective norms regarding PTSD screening.
• To identify barriers to PTSD screening in primary care.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted.
• Data were collected from primary care APRNs on PTSD screening knowledge and practices.
• Surveys assessed subjective norms, attitudes, and self-efficacy related to PTSD screening.

Main Results:

• Deficiencies in PTSD screening knowledge and practices were identified among APRNs.
• Discrepancies existed between reported norms and actual screening practices.
• Low self-efficacy and perceived lack of importance for screening were reported, alongside numerous barriers.

Conclusions:

• Primary care APRNs require additional education and training on PTSD screening.
• Improving PTSD screening knowledge and practices is crucial for early identification in primary care.
• Addressing identified barriers is essential for effective PTSD screening implementation.