Prevalence and predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder following major trauma in New Zealand.

PURPOSE: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a known potential sequel to physical trauma. PTSD in trauma patients has seldom been studied in New Zealand. This study aimed to measure the prevalence and predictors of PTSD among hospitalized trauma patients in Christchurch, New Zealand.

METHODOLOGY: Participants who presented to Christchurch Hospital and were included in the NZ Major Trauma Registry (Injury Severity Score ≥ 12) were recruited. Eligible participants were mailed a questionnaire containing a series of self-reported 5-point rating scales that assess DSM-5 symptoms of PTSD. Baseline characteristics and demographic data were obtained from the NZ Major Trauma Registry. PTSD caseness was determined at a cutoff score >30 and analyses were performed accordingly.

RESULTS

Among 203 patients with major trauma (24 % response rate), 37 (18 %) were classed as having PTSD. Questionnaires were completed at mean 2.75 (standard deviation = 0.67) years since the injury. In univariable analysis, crossing PTSD threshold was positively associated with younger age (p < 0.001); the presence of anxiety (p < 0.001) and depression (p < 0.001); higher Injury Severity Score (p = 0.004); vehicle related injury (p = 0.009); GCS <15 (p < 0.001); having an alcohol related injury (p = 0.025); and all subscales of perceived social support (p < 0.05). In a backwards stepwise multivariable model controlling for age and sex unconditionally, the variables predictive of PTSD were younger age; Glasgow Coma Scale <15; and vehicle-related trauma.

CONCLUSION

High rates of PTSD exist in patients following major trauma in NZ. Patients who are young; and those with initial Glasgow Coma Scale <15; and vehicle-related trauma are at a higher risk of developing PTSD following major trauma.