Defusing is performed prior to the end of the shift and includes which of the following phases?

Defusing is a critical process in managing stress in emergency services and is designed to address the needs of individuals exposed to traumatic situations. The phases involved in this process focus on helping individuals cope with acute stress reactions that may arise from their experiences during a shift.

The phases of Assess, Triage, and Mitigate Acute Stress are integral to the defusing process. The initial phase, Assess, involves identifying the level of stress and the individual’s emotional and psychological state following a critical incident. This assessment helps determine the best approach for intervention.

Next, Triage prioritizes who needs immediate attention based on the severity of their reactions to stress. This ensures that those with the most significant needs receive support first, improving overall effectiveness in managing the emotional aftermath of the incident.

Finally, Mitigating Acute Stress focuses on providing immediate relief strategies, such as talking through the event, encouraging normal reactions to abnormal situations, and offering coping mechanisms. This phase aims to reduce the emotional burden and prevent long-term psychological issues.

Together, these phases are essential for promoting recovery and mental well-being among emergency service personnel, allowing them to cope with stress effectively after critical incidents.