(3) Group support. This includes a chance to talk to others, compare
feelings, and observe their recovery.
(4) Professional support. This bolsters the individual's defenses;
emphasizes unit integrity, acceptance, and reassurance; and appeals to pride and duty.
(5) Military atmosphere. This includes rank, courtesies, field gear, uniform,
performing relevant tasks, and quarters in a non-hospital environment.
NOTE:
Some physicians, physician assistants (PA), and medics may feel it violates
their ethical duty to establish a therapeutic goal of returning a combat fatigue
soldier back to the dangers of combat. Remember:
--Somebody will go to the combat area as a replacement.
--The replacement, not psychologically bonded to the unit, will not
have the support of friends and will be more at risk than others.
--The casualty being "helped" is being labeled a psychiatric patient.
The results of this label may be a life-long chronic psychiatric disability.
NOTE:
Seventy to eighty-five percent of casualties will return to duty within 72 hours,
treated within division or near unit. An additional 10 to 20 percent of
casualties treated in a combat zone will return to some duty within two weeks.
Evacuation of a casualty is done only if a true, psychiatric disorder that will
not respond within two weeks is evident.
MD0549
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