Prevention of Posttraumatic Stress: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Brief Prolonged Exposure Therapy for Injured Individuals at Level I Trauma Centers

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether a brief treatment method called Brief Prolonged Exposure Therapy (Brief PE) can help prevent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other related issues following injury. This randomized controlled trial focuses on individuals admitted to Level I Trauma Centers and aims to reduce psychological distress such as PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, pain, and improve quality of life up to 6 months after injury. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives standard clinical care (Treatment as Usual) provided at the trauma centers, which may include evaluations and follow-up therapy or medication but no trauma-focused therapy. The other group receives the same standard care plus three 60-minute sessions of Brief PE. This therapy involves education about trauma reactions, breathing exercises, repeated exposure to trauma memories and avoided situations, and discussion to challenge unrealistic beliefs. Homework assignments support ongoing practice between sessions. During the study, participants complete assessments at baseline and at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months after starting. These include interviews and questionnaires measuring PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, pain, and quality of life. Researchers will monitor these outcomes to assess the therapy's impact. The study lasts up to 6 months for each participant, with ongoing follow-up to track psychological and health changes after injury.

Trauma BPE Prolonged Exposure Therapy for Injured Individuals Admitted to a Level I Trauma Center