What's the best way to get diverted from the trauma?

Policy: The need to go on “trauma divert” is a rare situation but might occur in the following circumstances: • The emergency department is saturated; demand for critical patient care resources exceeds availability. • Emergency department resources are fully committed due to an external disaster/multiple-casualty event. • Emergency department resources are unavailable due to an internal disaster or catastrophic mechanical failure. • All available trauma surgeons are in the operating room. • The operating room is functioning at maximum capacity; no surgical suites are expected to become available within one hour. • General surgeons are overwhelmed with cases. • The general surgeon is physically unable to operate. In such rare cases the surgeon in collaboration with the emergency department physician may make the decision to divert trauma patients for a short period of time. The need to remain on divert status should be reviewed at least hourly to provide for the shortest possible time on divert.

Trauma draws heavily on memories, namely annoying memories. Yet the memory part of the brain basically functions through a pattern of substitution. Therefore there are chances that one can replace some of the old memories with new ones. You need to focus on building and internalizing new and pleasing memories.

Distraction helps. Find something that soothes you and use it to distract yourself. When your mind starts wandering back to the trauma, then distract yourself again and again. Remember that you are in control of your mind.

Honestly, I love to read and write, to get out of my own head for a little while, sometimes that is what is needed. To step out of your head of your world of just a few moments, to better help you cope with trauma.

After a trauma it can be hard to focus on anything else. It is important that you focus your attention on something that you enjoy. Do something for yourself and no one else. Get lost in the thing that you enjoy.

Talk to someone that cares Think positive Help others Occupy your mind