Page 2322 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

CHAPTER 67

Crisis Theory and Intervention

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Priority Concepts
Coping; Interpersonal Violence

I. Crisis Intervention
A. Description
1. Crisis is a temporary state of severe emotional
disorganization caused by an event that presents a
threat.
2. Everyone experiences crises; the outcome depends on
coping mechanisms and support systems available at
the time of the crisis.
3. The ability for decision making and problem solving is
inadequate.
4. Treatment is aimed at assisting the client and the
family through the stressful situation.

B. Phases of a crisis

1. Phase 1: External precipitating event (could be
situational, developmental, cultural, or societal)
2. Phase 2
a. Perception of the threat
b. Increase in anxiety
c. Client may cope or resolve the crisis.
3. Phase 3
a. Failure of coping
b. Increasing disorganization
c. Emergence of physical symptoms
d. Relationship problems
4. Phase 4
a. Mobilization of internal and external
resources
b. Goal is to return the client to at least a
precrisis level of functioning.
C. Types of crises (Box 67-1)

D. Crisis intervention

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