A nurse is caring for a patient who was recently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder due to intimate partner violence. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A reason: Prescribing medication isn’t a nursing role and requires assessment. PTSD from intimate partner violence involves amygdala-driven hyperarousal. Scientifically, premature medication risks inappropriate treatment, potentially disrupting neurotransmitter balance without addressing safety or psychological needs, delaying effective stabilization of trauma-related symptoms. Choice B reason: Avoiding all trauma reminders is impractical and may reinforce fear. Scientifically, blanket avoidance heightens amygdala activity, perpetuating PTSD symptoms like hypervigilance. Structured trigger management is needed, as total avoidance delays trauma processing, risking chronic stress responses and hindering psychological recovery. Choice C reason: A safety plan and support group information ensure protection and emotional support. Scientifically, safety reduces cortisol and amygdala hyperactivity, stabilizing PTSD symptoms. Support groups foster resilience, addressing trauma’s psychological impact, making this the priority to mitigate ongoing harm and promote recovery. Choice D reason: Encouraging indiscriminate trauma discussion risks re-traumatization and breaches privacy. Scientifically, uncontrolled disclosure can heighten amygdala-driven stress responses, worsening PTSD. Structured therapy is needed to process trauma safely, as open sharing may exacerbate anxiety or shame, delaying psychological stabilization.