PECULIARITIES OF NURSES’ WORK WITH MILITARY PERSONNEL AND VETERANS WHO HAVE SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF TRAUMATIC EVENTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/2411-1597.2025.2.15435Keywords:
nurse, war, traumatic events, military personnel, veteranAbstract
Introduction. Modern nursing practice requires further development, particularly in the areas of systematic training, strengthening human resources, and active participation in policy formation and research related to the medical care of military personnel and veterans.
The aim of the study – to explore the experiences, challenges, and needs of nurses when providing care to military personnel and veterans who have experienced traumatic or combat experiences both in a combat zone and in peacetime.
The main part. The study was based on analyzing scientific sources of information on the specified topic. The analysis of the collected sources confirms that nurses play a crucial role in the care of veterans, providing both physical and psycho-emotional support. In the US healthcare system, nursing in the VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) is developing within a holistic model of care that takes into account the unique military experience of patients. Nurses participate in screening for PTSD, coordinate multidisciplinary care, form trusting relationships with veterans, and create a safe environment for disclosing their needs. Special attention is paid to long-term and rehabilitative care, prevention of social isolation, and support for veterans’ families. However, the data indicate a number of challenges. Veterans often avoid contacting nurses due to distrust and reticence caused by the military culture. Nurses must possess not only clinical knowledge, but also cultural competence: understanding military terminology, service structure, typical psycho-emotional states. Educational programs, despite initiatives, have not yet fully integrated these topics into curricula.
Conclusions. Nurses play a key role in the care of military personnel and veterans, providing both medical and psychosocial support. To enhance their effectiveness, cultural competency and integration of military education into educational programs are essential.
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