OBJECTIVE: To investigate the occurrence and associated factors for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in rescuers and firefighters.
METHODS: The PTSD of 264 rescuers and firefighters who had participated in rescue was evaluated using the self-designed fireman general situation questionnaire and PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C). The factors associated with the occurrence of PTSD were also analyzed.
RESULTS: The incidence rate of PTSD in the subjects was 8.3%. The PTSD rate of special service corps (12%) was significantly higher than that of other subjects (P < 0.05). The incidence of PTSD was highest in the rescuers and firefighters above the third rank, but without significant differences (P > 0.05). The PTSD rate of married rescuers and firefighters was significantly higher than that of unmarried subjects (P < 0.05). The PTSD rate of subjects addicted to drinking was significantly higher than that of non-drinking subjects (P < 0.05). Subjects with more frequent attendance were more susceptible to PTSD compared with those with less attendance.
CONCLUSION: The incidence rate of PTSD is high in rescuers and firefighters who have attended rescues. It is necessary to implement both short-term and long-term counseling programs for stress management and intervention in order to reduce the psychological trauma after rescue and improve the mental health of rescuers and firefighters.