A nurse is admitting a client who has posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to a community mental health facility. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect during the admission assessment?

Choice A reason: PTSD typically involves an exaggerated startle response, not a decreased one. Hyperarousal is a hallmark symptom. Choice B reason: Sleep disturbances, including nightmares and insomnia, are common in PTSD. Uninterrupted sleep is not expected. Choice C reason: Avoidance of trauma-related thoughts and reluctance to discuss the event are core symptoms of PTSD. This aligns with diagnostic criteria. Choice D reason: PTSD symptoms must persist for more than one month to meet diagnostic criteria. Acute distress within 1–2 weeks may indicate acute stress disorder, not PTSD.