Views, self-rated competency, and perceived barriers in practicing trauma-informed care: A survey of Physician Assistants in Canada

Abstract

Psychological trauma has a widespread impact on individuals and the healthcare system, with it being estimated that over 70% of Canadians have experienced a traumatic event in their lives (1). Trauma-informed care (TIC) acknowledges the impact that trauma can have on an individual, works to understand the effects of trauma, recognizes the signs and symptoms of traumatic stress, and works to actively resist re-traumatization. The purpose of this study was to assess the opinions, self-rated competency, and perceived barriers of Canadian Physician Assistants (PAs) towards their practice of trauma-informed care. A survey study was distributed via email and various social media groups with a total of 66 respondents. The majority of participants had positive opinions towards TIC, feel somewhat confident in their practice of TIC and expressed a desire to learn more about it. Participants also acknowledged various barriers to the implementation of TIC, including a lack of training and education on the topic. In conclusion, there appears to be a knowledge gap between Canadian PAs and the practice of TIC, but the positive reception and interest towards the topic suggests this is a promising area for future growth and education for PAs in Canada.