Factors predictive of pediatric posttraumatic stress disorder one year post traumatic injury

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors predictive of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children following a traumatic injury. This knowledge may assist with early identification and treatment of children at risk for developing PTSD and perhaps prevent the disorder or diminish the intensity of the symptoms. The study was a secondary analysis of data collected from a previous study. Medical records from 337 subjects were abstracted and demographic data were analyzed. Chi-square analysis was used for categorical variables and t-test analysis was used for continuous variables. Results from data analysis revealed gender, ethnicity, age, and injury severity were not risk factors for developing PTSD. However, mechanism of injury, specifically a gun shot wound, was associated with development of PTSD; having a fall was associated with not developing PTSD. Type of injury by body area, specifically a wound to the abdomen, was associated with PTSD.