[TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE IN THE PUBLIC HEALTH SYSTEM: CLINICAL IMPORTANCE, PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES].

Abstract

Introduction: Trauma is a common life event, and sexual abuse is a common traumatic event. Consequences of trauma on health are extensive, and the relationship between childhood trauma and impaired health later in life is well-established. Health-care providers routinely encounter trauma survivors, and often lack confidence and training in trauma-informed care (TIC). TIC is an approach that acknowledges the high prevalence of trauma, assesses its impact on survivors, addresses the trauma, and strengthens the victims by providing professional support. TIC guiding principles include offering patients control over their own body and health, implementing routine screening for past traumatic events, adopting an open and supportive body language, creating transparency and cooperation, and refraining from an authoritarian approach.