Przegląd narzędzi diagnostycznych i metod pomiaru zespołu stresu pourazowego (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD) z możliwością wykorzystania wśród ratowników medycznych / Overview of diagnostic tools and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) measurement methods with the possibility of use among paramedics

The profession of a paramedic involves a constant contact with traumatic events - road accidents, disasters, acts of violence and so on. As a consequence of such frequent and long-lasting exposure to traumatic events, paramedics are prone to developing PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder). This is a chronic disorder impacting cognitive, emotional, behavioral and somatic experiences. As a result of a prolonged exposure to stressful events, such condition can be life threatening. There are two ways of diagnosing PTSD: structured interviews and self-rating questionnaires (self-rating scales). The researcher should choose the best method possible relying not only on its procedure. In addition, merit based factors and psychometric parameters should be taken into consideration. The present article provides an overview of both Polish as well as foreign PTSD assessment methods, which could be incorporated into the research conducted in a group of paramedics.