Problem
Scenario
Peter is a Community Service worker in the field of Alcohol and Drug Addiction and has been involved in a Critical Incident at work. One of his clients, Alan, was drug affected when he came to the office. Alan refused to let Peter out of an interview room and hit Peter several times. Peter suffered serious bruising and a broken collar bone. Two of Peter's colleagues intervened and the police were called. Peter was on Work Cover for several months and slowly returned to his full time position after a transitional return to work phase over four months. Peter and the Team received Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) at the time.
Since returning to work, Peter's supervisor Alex has noticed Peter is not coping well at work. Peter extends his lunch hours and often comes to work late. He is exhibiting symptoms of stress. Peter has been verbally angry with some of his colleagues and tells Alex he does not want to use the interview rooms when he sees clients. He says he wants to interview clients in the courtyard outside the office. Other Team Members have informed Alex that Peter is still talking about the Critical Incident and the Team think he should just 'get over it and get on with it'. Alex believes Peter may be suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and needs further support at work.
Task
A. How would Alex use appropriate questioning to encourage Peter to explore any continuing stress issues he may be experiencing since his return to work.
B. Alex thinks Peter has PTSD. What external agency supports might Alex use to assist in making a correct diagnosis of Peter's symptoms since his return to work?
C. How would a 'Systematic Review of the Critical Incident' benefit the Team in understanding that stress for workersmay continue for some time after a Critical Incident?
D. How might the long term effects of PTSD or Chronic Stress affect Peter's employment and long term health if they are not addressedby his supervisor?