Age Specific Considerations in Patient Care Related

Review Age Specific Considerations in Patient Care related questions and content

A victim of a sexual assault sits in the emergency department rocking back and forth and repeatedly saying, "I can't believe I've been raped." This behavior is characteristic of:

  • A. The acute phase reaction.
  • B. The angry stage of rape-trauma syndrome.
  • C. A delayed reaction to rape-trauma syndrome.
  • D. The long-term phase of rape-trauma syndrome.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The acute phase reaction. This behavior is characteristic of the immediate emotional response following a traumatic event like sexual assault. The victim may exhibit shock, disbelief, and emotional distress. In this scenario, the victim's reaction of disbelief and repetitive statements align with the acute phase reaction. The other options are incorrect because the angry stage (B) and delayed reaction (C) occur later in the trauma response process, while the long-term phase (D) reflects a more prolonged period of adjustment and coping.