PTSD Among Caregivers

We saw from the recent posts about Dr. Gene Bolles' time at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany (see previous blog entries) that combat trauma can affect caregivers deeply as well, including experienced medical personnel responsible for the care of injured troops.  A recent story in the Tacoma, WA News Tribune tells how one combat nurse was so affected by her work in a battlefield hospital in Iraq that she herself attempted suicide.  Thankfully, she survived the attempt and is today recuperating and attempting to piece her life back together, including by writing about her experiences.  But it's a sobering tale indeed of the tremendous price paid by those who care for the wounded as well.  Functioning in a combat zone, working incredibly long shifts with little time off, and handling a literal avalanche of horrific injuries day after day, it's not surprising that this work would affect the caregivers deeply.  Read this story of a heroic nurse's reunion with one of her severely injured patients, giving hope to them both.